Billinger moves from KFC to Mimi’sBillinger moves from KFC to Mimi’s

COLUMBUS Ohio Bob Evans Farms Inc. has named Herbert Billinger executive vice president of operations, productivity and integration at Mimi’s Cafe, where he also will oversee the real estate function.

Billinger joins the casual-dining chain from KFC, where he served as vice president of operations and senior director of franchise operations. Earlier, Billinger spent 12 years at Pizza Hut, rising to director of company operations. Both KFC and Pizza Hut are holdings of Yum! Brands Inc.

Billinger reports to Tim Pulido, who became Mimi’s president on Dec. 3.

“Herbert’s primary focus will be to further improve operations and productivity at Mimi’s Cafe by sharing best practices and facilitating teamwork between our two restaurant concepts,” said Steve Davis, Bob Evans’ chairman and chief executive.

Bob Evans Farms, based here, operates 579 Bob Evans family restaurants and 118 Mimi’s Cafes.