Former BJ’s Restaurants Executive Utilizes Decades of Leadership Experience to Foster Growth
Starbird, a super-premium fast-food brand, has appointed Greg Levin chief as executive officer and board member. Levin utilizes almost two decades of senior leadership experience with BJ’s Restaurants to drive the brand’s growth. In another leadership move, Starbird founder Aaron Noveshen has transitioned from CEO to chairman of the board, allowing him to continue stewarding the brand’s long-term vision and values.
“Starbird delivers a premium, chef-driven product with a strong operational foundation, which is a powerful combination,” Levin said. “There’s clear differentiation, strong unit economics and a lot of white space for expansion. As I got to know the leadership team and investors, it became clear that there was alignment around building a disciplined, long-term growth strategy. The opportunity to help guide Starbird through its next phase of franchised expansion was incredibly compelling — building the systems, partnerships and leadership depth that allow the brand to grow thoughtfully while maintaining the guest experience that makes it special.”
He pointed to Starbird’s partnership with Dollarhyde Investment Group and support from the KarpReilly private equity firm as major drivers of the brand’s future growth. “Having strong, experienced capital partners gives Starbird the ability to invest in the infrastructure required to scale a franchise system the right way,” Levin said. “That includes technology, supply chain, real estate strategy and support for our operators. Just as important, both Dollarhyde Investment Group and KarpReilly bring deep operational and strategic expertise. They’ve helped grow successful restaurant brands before, and that experience will be a major advantage as we expand.”
Levin said he is committed to leading with vision and trust, creating a space where his team can thrive. “When teams have clarity, ownership and alignment, performance follows. My background has largely centered on scaling brands responsibly, ensuring the infrastructure, economics and operational discipline are in place before accelerating growth. Staying ahead for Starbird means continuing to innovate while expanding in a focused, high-quality way.”
Noveshen said the fast-food franchise is in capable hands with Levin leading the way. “Having a leader with hands-on experience growing a premium restaurant brand nationwide brings real confidence to our franchise partners, investors and operators, and reinforces Starbird’s commitment to thoughtful leadership, strong execution and sustainable growth,” Noveshen said.
In his leisure time, Levin enjoys sneaking out for a surf session, traveling and exploring new restaurants. He is also passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and helping the next generation of operators and brand builders grow in their careers.
About Starbird
Founded in San Francisco in 2016 by restaurateur Noveshen through his firm, The Culinary Edge, Starbird is a super-premium fast-food brand that serves crispy chicken tenders, wings, sandwiches and salads. Today, the brand operates 19 locations across the country.
About Dollarhyde Investment Group
Greg Dollarhyde is an investor and restaurant industry leader known for his role in scaling fast-casual and emerging brands. Dollarhyde brings strategic insight and industry experience as a board member and lead investor in Starbird.
About KarpReilly
KarpReilly is a private investment firm that specializes in growing consumer brands. The firm supports Starbird’s mission through thoughtful investment and strategic guidance.
