The donut brand had record openings in 2025.
By Andrew Carlo
Shipley Do-Nuts announced that it has made a new executive appointment.
Bill Leibengood has been named chief marketing officer of the fast-growing donuts and kolaches brand. He brings more than 25 years of restaurant marketing and operations leadership to the Houston-based company.
Leibengood previously served as chief marketing officer of Houlihan’s before stepping into the chief operating officer role. Prior to that, he held senior marketing titles at Wingstop Restaurants and Applebee’s.
“With his deep marketing expertise, Bill will help elevate our brand storytelling through fresh, creative initiatives,” said Flynn Dekker, CEO of Shipley Do-Nuts. “He will have significant responsibility for strengthening the authentic guest experience our customers have cherished for nearly 90 years as we expand across the country and share our Texas heritage with new communities.”
At Shipley, Leibengood will focus on developing and implementing marketing strategies that contribute to same-store sales growth and elevate Shipley’s digital engagement, providing guests with seamless, modern touchpoints and ensuring cohesive marketing and promotional efforts systemwide.
The brand is currently experiencing robust growth and opened a company-record 35 new shops in 2025. This includes new locations in North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.
“As Shipley continues to scale, disciplined marketing will play a critical role in the company’s next phase of growth,” said Leibengood. “My focus will be on strengthening our marketing capabilities, sharpening our data-driven decision making and ensuring our brand continues to meet guests where they are as we amplify Shipley’s position as the premier donut and kolache destination nationwide.”
Founded in 1936, Shipley has more than 385 company-owned and franchised locations in 13 states.
Information about franchise opportunities with Shipley Do-Nuts can be found at https://ownashipleydonuts.com/.
