Luna Grill has named industry veteran Steve Holliday its new chief operations officer, the fast-casual Mediterranean chain based in San Diego said Tuesday.
He is replacing Sean Allemah, who has left the company.
Most recently, Holliday ran a consulting business focused on strategy and executive coaching for franchisees and privately held companies, according to a release announcing his appointment.
Prior to that he spent 20 years with Taco Bell Corporation and its parent company, Yum Brands.
"Luna Grill is poised for tremendous growth, with values grounded in the concept of 'doing good' through all aspects of the company — the food, the people and a cumulative impact on the community," Holliday said in a statement. "This alignment with my own commitment to serving the greater good and helping individuals reach their highest potential drew me to the brand and this opportunity."
Holliday, left, will report directly to president Rich Pinnella.
"I’m thrilled to bring Steve [Holliday] on board,” Pinnella said in a statement. “His extensive expertise in both multi-unit operations and restaurant expansion, combined with a passion for employee development makes him the ideal COO to help propel Luna Grill’s growth plans.”
He added that, in the coming months, Holliday would focus on optimizing operations, including improving online ordering and other aspects of off-premise dining.
There are 52 Luna Grill restaurants in Southern California and the Dallas/Fort Worth area in Texas.
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