The Little Beet has named Starbucks Corp. veteran Becky Mulligan as CEO, the New York-based fast-casual brand said Wednesday.
Mulligan succeeds John Rigos, who had served as interim CEO of The Little Beet and co-CEO of parent Aurify Brands LLC.
Rigos announced he would be shifting his efforts to strengthening New York-based Aurify Brands' partnerships and portfolio, which includes the original concepts of The Little Beet Table, the Melt Shop, Fields Good Chicken and Make Sandwich as well as Manhattan development rights for Five Guys Burgers and Fries.
"We're excited for Becky to lead us into 2019,” said Andy Duddleston, co-founder of The Little Beet, in a statement. “Her leadership skills, work ethic and strong business acumen will help us become the leader in our growing segment.”
Since its founding in 2014, The Little Beet has grown to nine locations in New York, Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Mulligan (left) joins The Little Beet after nearly 16 years with Starbucks, where she most recently served as regional director of the company's Seattle market and led key initiatives for 95 stores in that region.
Mulligan helped in the development and ongoing innovation behind Starbucks' mobile order app, ensuring that the brand's in-store experience was consistent through off-premises orders and delivery. The Little Beet said Mulligan will help The Little Beet's retail operations and digital initiatives.
Prior to Starbucks, she served in corporate sales and leadership positions at Kinko’s for 12 years.
The company said Mulligan will oversee The Little Beet's operations and development plans.
Mulligan cited The Little Beet’s health focus and plant-based meal options for her interest in the CEO role.
“I feel that there is a natural synergy between the brand's mission and the lifestyle I lead day to day, which is why I'm so excited to join the brand and expand our concept across the country,” Mulligan said.
The Little Beet was honored as a Nation’s Restaurant News Hot Concept in 2016.
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