Staffing

Zaxby's taps Russell Holland to lead development strategy

Source: Billy F. Blume Jr. for Shutterstock

July 6, 2026

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Zaxby's has named Russell Holland chief development officer, formalizing his leadership role. The move comes as the fast-casual chicken chain continues expanding beyond its Southeastern base and scales toward 1,000-plus units. Holland previously served as vice president and head of real estate for Inspire Brands and Waffle House. According to a company press release, he has led initiatives focused on streamlining development processes, expanding pipelines and supporting long-term growth.

"Russ not only has a proven track record of success improving workflows and supporting profitable growth across QSR brands, but he also has a leadership style that fits the Zaxby's brand," CEO Bernard Acoca said in the release.

The Athens, Georgia-based chain opened its 1,000th restaurant in March and plans to open 60 locations this year in Colorado, Missouri and Texas using its new 2,800- to 3,000-square-foot double-drive-thru "farmhouse" prototype.