Pasadena, Calif. — Dave’s Hot Chicken, the Los Angeles-based street food sensation turned breakthrough fast-casual brand, has added to its leadership team. Building on current momentum, which includes robust 2023 growth initiatives, Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to invest in its best-in-class executive team, with the additions of Brad Haley, chief marketing officer (CMO), and Leon Davoyan, chief technology officer (CTO).
Haley most recently led marketing initiatives for IHOP, including overseeing the “IHOb” campaign that garnered nationwide attention for the 1,800-unit chain. Prior to leading marketing at IHOP, Haley spearheaded campaigns for CKE Restaurants, the parent company of over 3,000 Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s restaurants. His long history of marketing success began with the introduction of the “Jack’s Back” campaign for Jack in the Box.
Most recently, Davoyan was with Kitchen United (KU), a leader in the ghost kitchen space, where he implemented new technology initiatives, optimized opening protocols and standardized IT systems. Prior to KU, he built his career by helping scale and grow emerging new brands like Pinkberry, Veggie Grill and Blaze Pizza. In his role with Dave’s Hot Chicken, he is focused on building its technology infrastructure to help supercharge growth. In addition, he is charged with harnessing tech tools to maximize the company’s marketing and operations initiatives through streamlining third-party delivery, enhancing the brand’s mobile app and strengthening day-to-day restaurant operations systems.
“We have built a world-class team of franchisees and support staff. Brad and Leon are two of the best in their fields, and I know they will only help us continue building this phenomenal brand,” says Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken.
Founded in 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken has sold the rights to more than 700 franchise locations in the U.S., Middle East and Canada and will open 70-plus locations this year. For more information, visit www.daveshotchicken.com/franchising.
SOURCE: Dave’s Hot Chicken