Pasadena, Calif. — Dog Haus is following up the announcement of a 50-unit development deal with the appointment of Chris Rigassio as president and chief development officer, and Garen Khodaverdian as chief operating officer. Beyond their franchisee deal and leadership roles, they also joined the brand’s partnership, alongside company founders Hagop Giragossian, Quasim Riaz and André Vener, as well as CEO Michael Montagano.
Reporting directly to Montagano, the seasoned franchise leaders will oversee the brand’s planned 1,500-unit expansion across new and existing markets — beginning immediately with their first location having just opened in San Fernando, Calif., earlier this spring.
“Chris and Garen bring an unmatched combination of operational excellence, franchisee experience and strategic vision to our table,” says Montagano. “I’ve known both for years and watched them build impressive portfolios as franchise operators and business leaders, and know they are the right partners to help take Dog Haus to the next level.”
Both Rigassio and Khodaverdian began their careers as part-time employees at Jersey Mike’s Subs, eventually becoming multi-unit franchisees. Today, the pair operates over 100 locations across multiple concepts, including Jersey Mike’s and Wingstop.
As president and CDO, Rigassio will spearhead the nationwide area director system, recruiting a blue-chip team of the country’s top and largest multi-unit operators from other leading fast-casual concepts, supercharging the brand’s growth by overseeing the development of 15 defined geographic regions — with 100 territories per area director. Rigassio will implement comprehensive development initiatives designed to strengthen real estate selection and construction processes, while streamlining economic and timing aspects.
With over 20 years in the industry, Khodaverdian will focus on long term, sustainable growth for the brand — streamlining operations, improving efficiencies, managing costs and ensuring every guest enjoys the same Dog Haus experience, no matter the location. As the brand scales, Khodaverdian will double down on developing strong leaders and investing in teams so they feel supported, empowered and connected to the culture.
Founded in 2010 by longtime friends Hagop Giragossian, Quasim Riaz and André Vener, the brand got its start in Pasadena, Calif., and has since grown to 50+ locations across the U.S. For more information, visit www.doghaus.com.
SOURCE: Dog Haus