Smalls Sliders CEO Maria Rivera has departed from the fast-casual chain, the company confirmed on Tuesday.
Officials did not offer any explanation or further details on her exit.
Rivera was the former U.S. president of Krispy Kreme before she took the helm of the Atlanta-based slider concept in December 2022, when Smalls had only five units. The chain was co-founded by Brandon Landry, founder and CEO of Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux, and is backed by former NFL Hall of Famer Drew Brees and 10 Point Capital. At the end of 2024, Smalls had about 20 units open and more than 300 in development.
Rivera has also held executive roles at Logan’s Roadhouse, TGI Fridays and Darden Restaurants. In her LinkedIn page, she noted significant milestones with Smalls in her two years there, including tripling sales increases, more than 20 billion media impressions, growing brand awareness from zero to 26%, launching a loyalty program, reimagining the brand positioning and creating a signature Pantone color—a specific orange used in branding of the modular units, which the company calls “cans.”
Rivera in a message did not reveal her plans, but described Smalls as a unique and special brand.
"The Squad and franchise partners are deeply committed to make a difference and will continue to do great things together," she said, in a statement. "I am confident in Smalls' bright future, its leadership, and its relevance in the category."
UPDATE: This article was updated with a response from Maria Rivera.
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