#Portillo's #Tony Darden #Chicago-style

Portillo's Welcomes Tony Darden as New COO

Introduction
Portillo's, a renowned fast-casual restaurant chain celebrated for its Chicago-style delicacies, announced the addition of Tony Darden to their executive team as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Darden, with an impressive 30-year track record in the restaurant industry, is set to drive significant operational improvements as Portillo's aims for nationwide expansion.

Darden's Responsibilities
Beginning his role on December 9, 2024, Darden will be integral in overseeing Portillo's operational strategies. His focus will be on ensuring a seamless experience for both guests and staff while the company pursues its ambitious growth plans. CEO Michael Osanloo expressed confidence in Darden's leadership abilities, highlighting his remarkable track record in elevating operational standards and fostering innovation in the workplace.

Background and Experience
Before joining Portillo's, Darden held the COO position at Jack in the Box, managing over 2,200 locations across 21 states. His tenure there was marked by transformative initiatives, including the implementation of AI technologies to streamline order-taking processes and enhance the customer experience. Furthermore, Darden has held key roles at MOOYAH Burgers, Taco Bueno, and Sun Holdings, demonstrating his diverse expertise within multi-unit restaurant operations. His experience as Vice President of Operations at Panera Bread further solidifies his proficiency in managing large-scale restaurant operations.

Portillo's Growth Strategy
As Portillo's strives to expand its presence, Darden's role will be crucial. The company has set an ambitious target of operating as many as 920 locations, which will include full-service restaurants and alternate formats such as Portillo's Pick-Up locations. Darden's commitment to operational excellence aligns directly with Portillo's dedication to maintaining high-quality service and food standards, which have been the cornerstone of the brand's success since its inception.

Innovative Dining Experience
One of the upcoming highlights during Darden's tenure will be the launch of the brand's first-ever