Woworks, the parent company of six fast-casual restaurant brands, announced the creation of two new executive culinary positions on Tuesday.
Cole Thompson was appointed VP of Culinary for Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek and Barberitos Southwestern Grille and Cantina. Katie Caputo, formerly a Woworks executive chef, will transition into the new position of VP of Culinary for Saladworks, Frutta Bowls and Zoup! Eatery.
Cole Thompson./Photo courtesy of WOWorks
“We created our new Vice President of Culinary roles because menu innovation and keeping abreast of the fresh, exciting flavors and ingredients is a crucial part of each of our restaurants at WOWorks,” Kelly Roddy, CEO of Woworks, said in a statement. “We want our guests at each of our restaurant brands to enjoy seasonal and fresh menu items that not only provide a healthier meal choice, but also satisfy their desire for tasty offerings.”
Thompson brings 15 years of food industry experience to WOWorks, most recently as corporate executive chef at RaceTrac. He trained at Johnson & Wales and has worked in both the fine dining and fast casual segments and as a research and development chef. Previously, he served as culinary R&D director at Moe’s Southwest Grill.
In his new role, Thompson will take charge of R&D and menu innovation for the three Woworks brands he oversees. Caputo will have the same responsibilities for her brands, with both VPs tasked with delivering on-trend food and beverage offerings for company-owned and franchised stores.
In June, Woworks added two new VP of marketing roles, appointing Lori Kern as vice president of marketing for Saladworks, Frutta Bowls and Zoup! Eatery and Mark Kreiner as VP of marketing for the three other brands.
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