Upscale Mexican chain Rosa Mexicano has hired Jim Dunn as its new CEO.
The six-unit concept hopes Dunn can help it open more restaurants as it revamps its brand and moves into growth mode. He has had experience doing that over the past 12 years as a VP with big franchisor Alshaya Group, where he oversaw the expansion of restaurant brands in the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, Russia and Europe.
He also founded the WellDunn Restaurant Group and spent 10 years as president and COO of Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group. Before that, he was COO of House of Blues and European director for Hard Rock International.
Dunn replaces CEO and President Chris Westcott, who left Rosa Mexicano in October after more than six years to become CEO of Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant.
Chef Josefina Howard opened the first Rosa Mexicano on the Upper East Side in 1984. It's known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and creative bar program. It was acquired in 2018 by TriSpan Partners' Rising Stars, an investment fund focused on growing upstart brands.
It now has six locations across the Northeast with four more under development. Last month, the chain unveiled a new, more modern identity that encompasses its restaurants, menu, website and more.
"I'm thrilled as CEO to honor [Howard's] legacy and continue the growth and success of Rosa Mexicano as the leading server of continued commitment to our loyal guests," Dunn said in a statement. "Our brand following continues to amaze me, daily."
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