Taco John’s International Inc. president and CEO Jeff Linville stepped down last week after three years with the “West-Mex” quick-service chain, the company confirmed Monday.
Executives said Linville, a former Arby’s executive who joined Taco John’s in April 2013, left to pursue other opportunities.
In his place, Jim Creel, Taco John’s former vice president and CFO, has been promoted to the role of president, the company said Friday.
Creel has been with the Cheyenne, Wyo.-based chain for more than 15 years.
“We’re very excited to see one of our trusted team members move into this leadership role,” said Terry O’Connor, a Taco John’s board member. “Jim is respected throughout our company and across our franchise community. We’re confident Jim and his team will successfully move Taco John’s forward as we work to innovate and grow our company.”
Taco John's also confirmed Monday that two other former Arby’s executives, hired along with Linville in 2013, also left the company last week to pursue other opportunities: Dan James, who was hired as chief development officer, and Shawn Eby, vice president of operations.
“We appreciated their work with our organization and we wish them the best as they move forward,” said Billie Jo Waara, Taco John’s chief marketing officer.
Taco John’s operates and franchises more than 380 restaurants in 24 states.
Update: Aug. 15, 2016 This story has been updated with additional information about executive changes at Taco John's.
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