Costa Mesa, Calif.-based El Pollo Loco Inc. continues its executive leadership hiring spree with the appointment of franchising expert Jason Weintraub, left, who will become chief legal officer Aug. 29, the company announced Tuesday.
The former Taco Bell business development executive joins a fray of new leaders at the quick-service chicken chain. Other appointments have included Miguel Lozano, chief operating officer; Jennifer Jaffe, chief people officer; and Hector Muñoz, chief marketing officer. The new leaders, hired over the course of a year, are tasked with helping El Pollo Loco with its transformation plan.
So far this year, the company has made a major push with Hispanic families, launched a brand refresh and trimmed its menu by 20%.
While at Irvine, Calif.-based Taco Bell, Weintraub developed and implemented a brand licensing program and served as head of business development for Taco Bell International. He most recently worked as vice president, general counsel and secretary for Irvine, Calif.-based BSH Home Appliances Corp.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Jason as our new chief legal officer and member of our leadership team,” CEO Bernard Acoca said in a statement. “His previous experience in franchise matters will be invaluable as we seek to grow the brand in new geographies and look to forge even tighter bonds with our franchise partners.”
Weintraub said he’s excited to join the El Pollo Loco team.
“Having the chance to lead the legal function for such an iconic brand fulfills a long-standing career goal,” he said in a statement. “I look forward to leading the team and working closely with the Leadership Team to grow and transform this great brand and company.”
El Pollo Loco has about 484 restaurants. Of those, 200 are company-operated stores.
Contact Nancy Luna at [email protected]
Follow her on Twitter: @fastfoodmaven
