The move comes as the salad chain faces a sliding stock price and customer complaints. 

BY JENNIFER CONRAD, SENIOR WRITER @JENNIFERCONRAD

Sweetgreen co-founder Nathaniel Ru in New York City. Photo: Getty Images

Nathaniel Ru just said he’s stepping down from his role as chief brand officer of Sweetgreen, the salad chain he co-founded nearly 20 years ago. The move comes at the end of a tough year for company; its stock (NYSE: SG) has lost about 80 percent of its value since the start of the year. 

“This decision marks the beginning of a new chapter for me,” he said in a LinkedIn post. “I’ve spent nearly half my life building Sweetgreen, and I’m ready to be a beginner at something again.” 

Ru added he will maintain his role on the board, but would be stepping back from day-to-day operations. “My connection to our mission remains unwavering,” he added. 

Zipporah Allen will take over Ru’s responsibilities, Sweetgreen 

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