Hi Auto, the global leader in AI-powered order-taking for drive-thrus, announced the appointment of Crystal Deaderick as Head of Sales on October 27, 2025. The move signals a new phase of growth for the company as it continues to expand its presence across the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.
Deaderick brings more than 20 years of combined experience in restaurant operations and restaurant technology. Her expertise will be instrumental in accelerating Hi Auto’s customer acquisition strategy and driving revenue growth as the company scales its AI voice-ordering platform to more QSR brands and franchise operators worldwide.
Crystal Deaderick Combines Real-World Restaurant Insight with Sales Leadership
Before entering the tech space, Crystal Deaderick spent more than a decade working directly in restaurants, starting at age 14 and continuing through her early adulthood. This firsthand experience allows her to understand the fast-paced, high-pressure environment that defines the QSR industry.
Her deep operational knowledge complements her proven record in technology sales. Deaderick has held senior positions at Dragonfruit AI, Qu POS, and Revel Systems, where she consistently exceeded expectations and led teams to secure multi-million-dollar contracts. Her leadership style emphasizes customer trust, measurable results, and a focus on delivering real value.
“I’ve spent my career helping restaurants run smoother, grow faster, and take better care of their teams and guests,” said Deaderick. “Hi Auto’s solution actually delivers on that. It’s easy to implement, it works at scale, and it makes a real difference in the day-to-day flow of the business. I’m proud to be part of something that’s already raising the bar for QSR performance.”
Hi Auto Expands AI Voice-Ordering Technology Across Drive-Thru Markets
Hi Auto’s decision to bring Deaderick on board aligns with its rapid growth and rising demand for automation across the QSR landscape. The company’s AI-driven order-taking platform currently operates in nearly 1,000 drive-thru locations, boasting a 93 percent order completion rate and 96 percent accuracy.
These metrics demonstrate Hi Auto’s ability to deliver reliable and scalable solutions in an industry where consistency and speed are critical. The company’s technology streamlines operations, allowing restaurants to maintain brand voice and upselling strategies while giving local operators flexibility to adapt to customer needs.
“Crystal knows how restaurants run,” said Roy Baharav, Co-Founder and CEO of Hi Auto. “That’s what makes her such a powerful partner to our customers. She’s proven she can win the trust of QSR brands and deliver real value. As we scale to more locations, her leadership will help us reach the right customers faster.”
Growing Market Demand for AI-Driven Solutions in Quick-Service Restaurants
The QSR industry has seen significant digital transformation in recent years, with drive-thrus now accounting for over 75 percent of all fast-food sales in the United States. As customer expectations for convenience and speed increase, AI technologies are becoming central to how leading restaurant brands operate.
Hi Auto’s 2025 Buyer’s Guide for QSRs outlines the key performance benchmarks for scalable AI systems, noting that only vendors achieving 90 percent or higher order completion and 95 percent or higher accuracy are truly ready for mass deployment. With Hi Auto surpassing both, the company stands out as a trusted provider of reliable voice AI for drive-thru service.
The company’s success is also fueled by ongoing labor challenges and the rising cost of staffing. By introducing consistent, 24/7 automated order-taking, Hi Auto helps restaurants reduce operational pressure while improving service speed and guest satisfaction.
Hi Auto Positions Itself for Long-Term Growth Under Deaderick’s Sales Leadership
Hi Auto’s next chapter will focus on scaling effectively and maintaining performance as it expands across new geographies and brand portfolios. The complexity of franchise operations, varying acoustic environments, and local menu differences can challenge AI systems at scale.
Deaderick’s dual background in restaurant operations and enterprise sales positions her to overcome these barriers. She understands both the technology’s capabilities and the business realities of running a restaurant chain. Her leadership will focus on helping clients see tangible outcomes from AI adoption, from labor savings to faster service times and increased revenue per order.
As Hi Auto expands, the company’s strategy will center on deepening relationships with leading QSR brands while continuing to innovate its technology stack. Deaderick’s appointment underscores Hi Auto’s commitment to pairing world-class AI with experienced, people-first leadership.
The company’s proven results and expanding footprint suggest it is well-positioned to define the next generation of drive-thru operations. With Crystal Deaderick leading sales, Hi Auto aims to turn technological innovation into sustainable industry transformation.
