Staffing

Smalls Sliders taps Maria Rivera as CEO

Provided

December 13, 2022

Atlanta-based QSR brand Smalls Sliders has appointed Maria Rivera, former U.S. president of Krispy Kreme, as its chief executive officer, according to a press release.

Rivera has held prior roles with TGI Fridays, Logan's Roadhouse, Darden Restaurants and The Walt Disney Company.

"I am excited to be joining Smalls Sliders early on," Rivera said in the press release. "With strong unit economics and distinctive brand positioning, Smalls Sliders has what it takes to win. This is an exciting time for this brand, and I am eager to work alongside our partners to drive forward the impressive work they started. I look forward to bringing the incredible and innovative Smalls experience to new guests across the country while executing on the company's growth agenda."

Under Rivera's leadership, Smalls Sliders will accelerate previously announced plans for significant franchise growth. Owned by Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Drew Brees and Brandon Landry, CEO of Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, the brand has already garnered a fanatical guest following. 10 Point Capital also joined as owners earlier this year, recognizing Smalls potential to become a dominant national brand.

"Maria brings the energy and tenacity necessary to build a successful brand", Landry said in the press release. "The quality of our slider was really what hooked Maria. Her passion for people and operational excellence, her deep industry expertise, and her commitment to build and develop winning teams will enable our franchisees to successfully expand across the country."

Smalls Sliders opened its first restaurant in 2019 and has since grown to five locations, with over 40 locations already in the development pipeline.