Julie Felss Masino (born 1973) is an American business executive and entrepreneur, currently serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. since November 2023. She is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in the restaurant and retail industries, having held senior roles at Taco Bell, Yum! Brands, and Tatte Bakery & Café before taking the helm at Cracker Barrel.
“I believe in honoring tradition while embracing innovation to meet the needs of new generations.” — Julie Felss Masino
Julie Felss Masino is a transformative leader in the American restaurant industry. Known for her ability to balance heritage brands with modern innovation, she became the CEO of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in November 2023. Her appointment marked a pivotal moment for the iconic Southern‑themed chain, as she introduced modernization strategies, rebranding efforts, and multi‑million‑dollar refurbishments to attract younger audiences while preserving Cracker Barrel’s nostalgic charm.
Her career trajectory reflects resilience, adaptability, and vision — from her early days in fast food to leading one of America’s most beloved dining chains.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1973 | Born in Nashville, Tennessee |
| 1995 | Graduated from Miami University, Ohio (B.A.) |
| 2000s | Held leadership roles at Yum! Brands and Taco Bell |
| 2018 | President of Taco Bell International |
| 2020 | CEO of Tatte Bakery & Café |
| 2023 | Named CEO of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store |
| 2025 | Continues modernization and expansion of Cracker Barrel |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Julie Felss Masino |
| Birthdate | 1973 |
| Birthplace | Nashville, Tennessee, USA |
| Age | 52 years (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian-American |
| Education | B.A., Miami University (Ohio) |
| Profession | Business executive, CEO |
| Parents | Not publicly disclosed |
| Siblings | Not publicly disclosed |
| Marital Status | Married to David Masino |
| Children | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10 million–$20 million |
Julie Felss Masino was born in Nashville, Tennessee in 1973. Details about her parents and siblings remain private, but her upbringing in the South influenced her appreciation for hospitality and tradition — values that later aligned with her leadership at Cracker Barrel.
Education
Masino attended Miami University in Ohio, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Her education provided a strong foundation in business and communication, preparing her for a career in corporate leadership.
Career Background
Early Career
Julie began her career in the fast food industry, working with Yum! Brands and Taco Bell. She quickly rose through the ranks, recognized for her ability to drive growth and innovation.
Taco Bell
Masino served as President of Taco Bell International, overseeing global expansion and digital innovation. She played a key role in modernizing the brand and adapting it to diverse international markets.
Tatte Bakery & Café
In 2020, Masino became CEO of Tatte Bakery & Café, a Boston‑based artisanal bakery chain. She focused on scaling operations while maintaining the brand’s boutique identity.
Cracker Barrel
In July 2023, Masino was named President and CEO of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., officially assuming the role on November 1, 2023. Her leadership has been marked by:
- Rebranding initiatives to appeal to younger demographics.
- Multi‑million‑dollar refurbishments of stores.
- Balancing modernization with Cracker Barrel’s traditional Southern heritage.
Career Colleagues
- Sandra Cochran (former CEO of Cracker Barrel)
- David Gibbs (CEO of Yum! Brands)
- Sharelle Rosado (industry peer in hospitality/retail leadership)

Trending News (2024–2025)
Julie Masino continues to trend for her modernization of Cracker Barrel, including digital ordering, menu innovation, and store refurbishments. Her leadership has sparked debate among loyal customers about balancing tradition with change.
Challenges & Achievements
Achievements:
- CEO of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (2023–present).
- President of Taco Bell International.
- CEO of Tatte Bakery & Café.
- Over 30 years of leadership in the restaurant industry.
Challenges:
- Balancing modernization with Cracker Barrel’s traditional brand identity.
- Navigating controversies over rebranding efforts.
- Managing customer expectations while pursuing growth.
Personal Life, Spouse & Children
Julie is married to David Masino. While details about her children remain private, she is known for balancing family life with her demanding executive career.
Salary & Net Worth
As CEO of Cracker Barrel, Masino earns a multimillion‑dollar compensation package. Her estimated net worth is between $10 million and $20 million, derived from executive salaries, bonuses, and board memberships.
Legacy
Julie Felss Masino’s legacy is defined by her ability to modernize heritage brands while respecting tradition. Her leadership at Taco Bell, Tatte Bakery, and Cracker Barrel demonstrates her versatility and vision. She represents a new generation of executives who blend innovation, inclusivity, and customer focus to sustain iconic American brands.









