On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has named Ward Whitworth president, the company said Wednesday.
Whitworth was previously president of Richardson, Texas-based ACG Texas Restaurants, the nation’s largest IHOP franchisee.
Whitworth succeeds Steve Clark, who is stepping down, but will remain with On the Border for a period to “ensure a smooth transition to new leadership,” according to a statement from the Irving, Texas-based casual dining company.
On the Border was sold by Golden Gate Capital to Atlanta-based Argonne Capital Group in April.
Before ACG, Whitworth spent five years as head coach, franchise for Yum Brands’ Pizza Hut and prior to that served in various operations and functional roles at Pizza Hut for more than 13 years.
“On The Border is a world-class brand,” Whitworth said, in a statement. “We are ready for our next chapter of growth, and I am confident this unique brand under new ownership and leadership will continue to thrive in the coming years.”
On The Border has 155 restaurants in 36 states in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Asia and the Middle East.
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