Panchero's Mexican Grill Announces New Vice President Of Operations

By: Pancheros Mexican Grill | 1,014 Shares 261 Reads

Corporate changes help fast-casual chain continue to grow

July 11, 2011 // Franchising.com // (Coralville, IA)- Panchero's Mexican Grill has announced the hiring of Barry Nelson as the company's new vice president of operations. Nelson brings more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He spent 10 years with Papa John's working with both corporate and franchise operations, including positions as store manager, district manager, franchise business director and operating partner with the master franchise in Alberta, Canada.

"At Papa John's I oversaw aggressive franchise store growth in multiple U.S. markets, including Chicago. I also directed the largest growth of Papa John's restaurants in Canada while working with the master franchise in Alberta," Nelson said. "This experience has definitely prepared me for this new position at Panchero's and I'm excited grow with this great concept."

Jenni Knock has also joined the corporate team at Panchero's as the controller. Knock spent 14 years with Kinseth Hospitality Companies, where she was staff accountant, internal auditor/traveling accountant, accounting manager, IT support and assistant controller.

Panchero's Franchise Corporation has also promoted Reid Travis to director of marketing. Travis was previously social and new media project manager for Panchero's. He has been with the company since 2009.

Panchero's Mexican Grill is a quick-service, fresh-Mexican franchise concept that serves its signature homemade tortillas filled with the freshest, highest-quality vegetables, meats, cheeses and salsas. The menu includes made-to-order burritos, quesadillas, tacos, burrito bowls and salads, along with homemade salsas, guacamole and queso.

Panchero's currently has more than 50 locations in 17 states and the company plans to have 60 restaurants open across the country by the end of 2011. This aggressive growth will be fueled by multi-unit franchise operators, especially those with experience in the restaurant industry. Most existing franchisees either currently operate or plan to open multiple locations.

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