Leadership

Individuals influencing the direction of the restaurant industry

Chili's parent promotes Aaron White to chief people officer

By Joe Guszkowski on Oct. 21, 2022

The Brinker veteran replaces recently departed Rick Badgley in what the company called a change in leadership structure.

Leadership

Rian McCartan named CEO of drive-thru beverage chain Swig

By Lisa Jennings on Oct. 20, 2022

The former See’s Candy exec will lead the "dirty soda" brand in its next phase of growth.

Leadership

KFC loses a trio of executives to early retirement

By Jonathan Maze on Oct. 17, 2022

The U.S. market’s chief operations officer and chief financial officer and its director of national field operations are all leaving.

Leadership

Maria Hollandsworth named COO of El Pollo Loco

By Lisa Jennings on Oct. 17, 2022

Hollandsworth was previously the regional vice president of operations for Dunkin’ and also spent about 20 years at Jack in the Box.

Leadership

Nation’s third largest Pizza Hut franchise operation names new CEO

By Lisa Jennings on Oct. 12, 2022

Former Chipotle exec Jason Cochran joins American West Restaurant Group.

Leadership

Chuck E. Cheese makes a big international push

By Reyna Estrada on Oct. 11, 2022

The eatertainment brand has appointed Mario Centola executive vice president and chief operating officer of international operations, and Adrienne Gonzalez is its new director of international marketing.

Leadership

Taco John’s names Mark Kocer COO

By Jonathan Maze on Oct. 10, 2022

The 30-year industry veteran will oversee day-to-day operations at the Mexican chain.

Leadership

Arby’s names Rita Patel chief marketing officer

By Reyna Estrada on Oct. 06, 2022

Arby’s has named Rita Patel Brand its chief marketing officer (CMO). In her new role, Patel will oversee Arby’s brand strategy, menu and culinary innovation, as well as advertising and integrated ...

Leadership