Philz Coffee Hires 30-Year Industry Veteran Mark Johnson as COO
August 14 - 2026
Coffee Geography Magazine
Philz Coffee, the California-based specialty coffee chain, has appointed Mark Johnson as its new Chief Operating Officer. Johnson, a 30-year veteran of the food and beverage industry, will oversee the company’s day-to-day retail operations as Philz continues to expand its footprint beyond its West Coast roots. He joins an experienced executive team that includes Chief Business Officer Andy Mai and Chief Development Officer Patti Nelson.
Most recently, Johnson spent 12 years at California Fish Grill, where he played a key role in scaling operations as that brand expanded nationally. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for operational efficiency, team development, and maintaining brand identity and guest experience during periods of growth.
"Philz has built something truly special through genuine hospitality and handcrafted coffee," Johnson said. "I'm excited to join the team at this important moment for the brand's growth and build upon the strong foundation already in place. I look forward to supporting our teams and strengthening our operations."
Andy Mai and Patti Nelson have also joined the team in a newly structured leadership.
• Andy Mai, Chief Business Officer — Joined in May 2022, leading strategy across Marketing, Supply Chain, Technology, the Roasting Plant, and Wholesale and E-Commerce. He brings over 24 years of hospitality leadership from Torchy's Tacos, California Pizza Kitchen, and Real Mex Restaurants.
• Patti Nelson, Chief Development Officer — Joined in January 2022, overseeing real estate, leasing, construction, and design. She brings more than 25 years of development experience from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Subway, Peet's Coffee & Tea, and Burger King.
"As Philz continues to grow, it's essential to have the right leadership team in place," said CEO Mahesh Sadarangani. "Mark brings deep operational expertise and shares our commitment to thoughtful growth. Together with Andy and Patti, this team will help us continue delivering the experience that has made Philz special for more than two decades."
Philz Coffee operates more than 80 stores across California and Chicago. The company roasts its custom blends at its Oakland facility using responsibly sourced green coffee beans from around the world.