Baja Fresh gets new blood

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — The Baja Fresh exec team has new faces.

 

The fresh-Mex chain hired 20-year culinary veteran Jonathan Rogan, director of research and development, and Meade Wildrick, director of marketing.

 

According to a news release, Wildrick will focus on solidifying the brand's position as the fast-casual segment leader and establishing the direction for all future advertising and marketing efforts. Prior to this position, he worked on Del Taco's emerging markets. In addition, Wildrick has client or agency experience with such industry leaders as Disney's ESPN Zone, Burger King Corp., Coca-Cola USA, Jack in the Box and Carl's Jr. restaurants.

 

Rogan brings a unique combination of culinary creativity, hands-on kitchen operations experience, product development knowledge and training expertise to Baja Fresh. Over his 20-year career, Rogan has held culinary management positions at a variety of food and beverage businesses, including: El Torito Grill, California Pizza Kitchen, Gelson's Markets, Good Earth Restaurants and Square One Restaurant.