News

El Pollo Loco hires former Coke, Arby's IT exec for new digital role

April 18, 2019

El Pollo Loco, Inc. has named Brian Wallunas to the newly-created role of vice president of digital marketing, effective April 22. In the role, Wallunas will oversee efforts to "make loyalty a bigger part of how El Pollo Loco goes to market," while also leading digital strategy, according to a news release.

"Brian is a critical team addition as we seek to increase brand loyalty and digitize our business," CMO Hector Muñoz, said in the release. "His proven digital abilities will be key in bringing frictionless convenience for our customers as the brand continues to pursue sustainable growth through our transformation agenda." 

Most recently, Wallunas oversaw digital strategy and capabilities for Coca-Cola's National Foodservice business unit, as the director of marketing technology. That follows his roles as Arby's digital strategy director and Domino's director of digital experience.

"I'm impressed with El Pollo Loco's transformation agenda and excited to help grow the love and loyalty among its customers," Wallunas said in the release. "We have an opportunity to leverage technology in a way that drives differentiated value and makes the brand more accessible for customers, and I can't wait to get started."