#USA #Atlanta #Huddle House #Ascent Hospitality #Perkins Food

Ascent Hospitality Management Appoints New Chief Technology Officer

Ascent Hospitality Management, the franchisor behind popular family dining brands Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., recently announced the appointment of Brian Wallunas as their new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). This pivotal decision showcases Ascent's commitment to enhancing its digital infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and elevate the overall guest experience.

With over two decades of experience in both the hospitality and technology sectors, Wallunas comes with an impressive background that is set to benefit Ascent's growth trajectory. Before joining Ascent, he served as the CTO at Smokey Bones, where he successfully managed significant digital transformation projects. Under his leadership, the brand experienced a remarkable tripling of online sales and a vast improvement in guest engagement capabilities, proving Wallunas's effectiveness in leveraging technology to drive business success.

James O'Reilly, the CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, expressed his confidence in Wallunas's capabilities, stating, "Brian is a forward-thinking technology leader with a deep understanding of how to leverage digital innovation to advance brand performance and guest loyalty." This highlights the importance of aligning technology investment with brand strategy, ensuring that both Huddle House and Perkins continue to evolve and meet customer needs.

Focus on Digital Strategy

In his new role, Wallunas will spearhead the development of customized technology strategies tailored specifically for the Ascent portfolio. He will oversee the implementation of scalable solutions that not only enhance the guest experience but also streamline operations, thus supporting franchisee growth. This initiative is vital as Ascent aims to strengthen its digital foundation and secure long-term success for its renowned restaurant systems.

Wallunas himself stated, "I'm eager to join Ascent at such a pivotal time and help build a best-in-class digital ecosystem that supports our guests, franchisees, and teams." His enthusiasm hints at the bright future he envisions for the company and the significant potential in the Huddle House and Perkins brands. The objective is to create frictionless and rewarding experiences that will keep guests returning consistently.

A Bright Future Ahead

The appointment comes at a crucial juncture where the hospitality industry is experiencing rapid digital evolution. With consumer preferences shifting and an increasing demand for technology-driven experiences, Wallunas's expertise will be instrumental in crafting solutions that resonate with both current and future guests. The focus will be on creating an ecosystem that not only meets but anticipates customer needs through innovative technology.

Ascent Hospitality Management has a proud history of bringing friends and families together over quality dining experiences. With nearly 600 locations across the U.S. and Canada, the brands under its umbrella have been serving award-winning meals for over 60 years. The leadership team is excited to further modernize operations and strengthen its brand positions in the marketplace.

For those interested in exploring franchise opportunities with Huddle House, additional information can be found at Ascent's Franchise Information Page. As the company embarks on this new chapter with Brian Wallunas at the helm of technology, the restaurant landscape can expect innovative and customer-centric solutions that elevate dining experiences to new heights.

In conclusion, the strategic appointment of Brian Wallunas not only aligns with Ascent's goals for modernization and growth but also sets the stage for a transformative journey in the hospitality industry. The company's commitment to enhancing technological capabilities is a promising sign for the future of both Huddle House and Perkins.