Ascent Hospitality, parent to Huddle House and Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, names former Qdoba exec Peter Ortiz chief development officerAscent Hospitality, parent to Huddle House and Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, names former Qdoba exec Peter Ortiz chief development officer

Peter Ortiz has been named chief development officer for Ascent Hospitality, parent to family dining restaurants Huddle House and Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, the company announced Monday.

In this role, Ortiz will oversee franchising growth for the Atlanta-based company, which is investing in modernizing the two concepts.

“When you consider the combined 700-plus restaurants open or under development between the brands, as well as Ascent’s commitment to modernizing the concepts, this decision forms a strong foundation for a remarkable future. I’m positive that talented restaurant investor/operator groups will see why now is clearly the time to invest in either Huddle House or Perkins,” said Ortiz in a statement. “Each brand fills a unique space in the restaurant sector, offering the opportunity to take advantage of prime real estate availability in attractive markets that remain untapped.”

Ortiz, left, comes to Ascent from Qdoba where, in October 2020, he was named vice president of franchise development. Prior to that, Ortiz led franchise development at Potbelly, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Carvel and Schlotzky’s.

“Peter’s strong work ethic, determination and reputation for successfully growing notable franchise concepts make him just the right fit for Huddle House and Perkins. His unique perspective and wealth of experience will help continue to steer these brands on their upwards trajectory,” said Michael Abt, CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, in a statement. “We look forward to following Peter’s lead in established tight bonds with a new collection of skilled franchisees.”

Perkins currently has 290 restaurants across the country and Huddle House has over 300 units nationwide.

Contact Holly Petre at [email protected]