News

Del Taco aims to redefine brand experience with new executive team

February 23, 2012

Del Taco has announced several promotions and appointments within its executive ranks as part of a larger initiative to redefine how the company delivers on its brand experience.

David Pear has been brought on board as senior vice president of Operations, with responsibility for both company and franchise operations. Pear comes to Del Taco from Domino's Pizza and Yum! Brands.

"Aligning company and franchise operations under a single leader allows us to leverage best practices and ensure we are delivering the optimal customer experience at every restaurant. We look forward to David Pear's leadership in his new role," said Paul Murphy, CEO.

Chad Gretzema has been brought on to fill the newly created role of senior vice president of Operations Support and Engagement. Gretzema had been a consultant to Del Taco, working with the company to lead a cross-functional brand experience initiative. He will be reporting to Del Taco Chief Brand Officer John Cappasola.

Pete Honer, vice president of Business Insight and Planning, has been promoted to senior vice president of Finance and will assume oversight of company real estate, market planning and asset management functions. Honer reports to Del Taco CFO Steve Brake.

Noah Chillingworth, currently senior director of Brand Marketing and Advertising, has been promoted to vice president of Marketing with the expanded role of overseeing field marketing. Chillingworth reports to Cappasola.

"Del Taco is on an aggressive mission to redefine how potential new and current customers view our product and service experience," Murphy said. "Ultimately, it is our goal to be the No. 1 restaurant of choice in our category precisely because of our raising the bar to consistently provide both quality and value at Del Taco."

Del Taco has more than 530 restaurants in 16 states.

Read more about operations management.