Chicago — Portillo’s, a fast-casual restaurant concept known for serving Chicago-style favorites for more than 60 years, has appointed Kevin Kalicak as chief financial officer and treasurer, effective Sept. 7, 2026.
Kalicak joins Portillo’s bringing decades of financial leadership within the restaurant industry, serving in various roles with Darden Restaurants for more than 25 years. As CFO of Portillo’s, he will oversee the company’s finance organization, including financial planning and analysis, accounting, investor relations, internal audit, tax, supply chain and other corporate financial functions.
“Kevin is a proven financial leader with deep restaurant industry expertise, a strong track record of driving profitable growth and a collaborative leadership style that aligns well with the direction of the Portillo’s brand,” says Brett Patterson, president and chief executive officer of Portillo’s. “As we refine and execute our strategy, his experience leading high-performing finance organizations to support operational excellence and ultimately drive shareholder value will be instrumental as we strengthen our business and position Portillo’s for long term growth.”
Most recently, Kalicak served as senior vice president of finance for Olive Garden, where he was responsible for the financial leadership of a brand with more than 900 restaurants and $5 billion in annual sales.
Portillo’s has grown from a small hot dog trailer in Chicago to more than 100 restaurants across 11 states.
SOURCE: Portillo’s