SPB Hospitality has promoted Amanda Hyde to chief operating officer of Krystal. Hyde has played a central role in improving operational performance and supporting the strategy to revitalize and expand Krystal. She will report directly to SPB chair and CEO G.J. Hart, and will take on expanded responsibility for systemwide operations.
Jeff Douglas. | Photo courtesy of Lou Malnati's.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria has appointed Jeff Douglas as Chief Technology Officer. Douglas is a strategic technology executive with more than 20 years of experience. He joins Lou Malnati's from Potbelly Sandwich Works, where he served as Chief Information Officer overseeing digital strategy, IT operations, and technology innovation.
Handel’s Ice Cream has appointed Naveen Dasa as chief financial officer. Dasa previously spent a decade with Yum Brands Inc., advancing through finance and strategy roles at Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and the corporate office. Most notably, he played a role in Pizza Hut’s remodel plan. He also held finance leadership roles at Shake Shack.
Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon announced the appointment of Blas Escarcega as Chief Development Officer. In this role, Escarcega will lead all aspects of franchise development in the United States, including market planning, franchise recruitment, site selection and new restaurant growth strategy. He brings over two decades of development experience to the job.
Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling is the new chief development officer for Portillo’s. She was most recently chief development officer for Miller’s Ale House, where she drove that brand’s expansion.She reports to Portillo’s new president and CEO Brett Patterson, who also came from Miller’s Ale House, where he was CEO. Pecoraro-Striepling also held prior leadership roles at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, Papa Johns, Bloomin’ Brands and Darden Restaurants.
Regan Starnes Nelson is the new director of marketing and public relations for Off The Hook Restaurants. A New Orleans native, Nelson brings more than a decade of experience in brand strategy, digital marketing and public relations across various consumer brands. Off The Hook is a fast-casual seafood concept with multiple locations across Louisiana.
Mathieu Smith | Photo courtesy of Ted's Montana Grill
Mathieu Smith has been named Controller at Ted’s Montana Grill. In his new role Smith will oversee financial operations and join the brand’s senior leadership team. Prior to joining Ted’s, he spent 12 years with 4Top Hospitality in Nashville, Tennessee.
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