Staffing
Luna Grill taps former Yum Brands exec as COO
January 19, 2021
Luna Grill has named industry veteran Steve Holliday as COO to oversee daily operations as well as field support, systems and processes for the 52-unit chain with locations in California and Texas.
Although Holliday most recently ran a consulting business focused on strategy and executive coaching for franchisees and privately held companies, he began his career with Yum Brands/Taco Bell Corporation. He spent over 20 years holding equity, franchise and corporate positions, including leading company-owned restaurants generating revenue upwards of $400 million, according to a company press release.
His franchise experience culminated in leading a team of operations consultants, who partnered with 170 franchisees to drive operational performance through strategy and leadership development; the collective portfolio consisted of 2,500 restaurants generating $3 billion in revenues.
"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 the release. "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 will report directly to company President Rich Pinnella, rounding out the executive team focused on infrastructure, technology, menu innovation, people development and brand positioning.
"(Holliday's) 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," Pinnella said in the release.
In the coming months, Holliday will focus on optimizing operations through technology, online/mobile ordering flow, off-premise dining, minimizing restaurant footprint and team leadership
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