Luna Grill has named industry veteran Steve Holliday as its new Chief Operations Officer (COO), overseeing day to day operations, field support, systems and processes for the growing 52-unit chain with locations in California and Texas.
Holliday most recently ran a consulting business focused on strategy and executive coaching for franchisees and privately held companies. He began his career with Yum! Brands/Taco Bell Corporation where he spent over 20 years holding equity, franchise and corporate positions; including leading company-owned restaurants generating revenue upwards of $400M.
His franchise experience culminated in leading a team of operations consultants who successfully partnered with 170 franchisees to drive operational performance through strategy and leadership development; the collective portfolio consisted of 2,500 restaurants generating $3B in revenues.
“Luna Grill is poised for tremendous growth, with values grounded in the concept of ‘doing good’ through all aspects of the company — the food, the people and a cumulative impact on the community,” said Holliday. “This alignment with my own commitment to serving the greater good and helping individuals reach their highest potential drew me to the brand and this opportunity,” he added.
Holliday will report directly to company President Rich Pinnella, rounding out the new executive team focused on infrastructure, technology, menu innovation, people development and brand positioning. “I’m thrilled to bring Steve on board. His extensive expertise in both multi-unit operations and restaurant expansion, combined with a passion for employee development makes him the ideal COO to help propel Luna Grill’s growth plans,” said Pinnella.
In the coming months, Holliday will focus on optimizing operations through technology, online/mobile ordering flow, off-premise dining, minimizing restaurant footprint and team leadership, according to Pinnella.
Holliday holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and resides in Corona Del Mar, California.
Luna Grill is a pioneer in the fast-casual segment, providing fresh contemporary Mediterranean food such as signature kabob plates, gourmet salads, bowls, appetizers including hummus and falafel, wraps, desserts, craft beer and wine in a contemporary setting. The concept has now grown to 52 locations in Southern California and the Dallas Fort Worth area.
About Luna Grill:
Founded in 2004, Luna Grill is a nationally recognized mark of excellence for foodservice establishments committed to nutrition and sustainability. Ranked number 30 in Restaurant Business’ “The Future 50” fastest-growing small chains in the United States and named “Number 5 Fast Casual Concept” at Fast Casual’s 2017 Movers and Shakers Awards, Luna Grill is pioneering the food industry with its commitment to wholesome food and environmentally friendly initiatives. Serving Mediterranean cuisine made with many non-GMO items, all foods, marinades and sauces are crafted with care daily from kabobs, falafel, salads and hummus, to wraps, desserts and wine in a fast-casual setting. Learn more and view the menu at www.LunaGrill.com. Follow on social at @lunagrill.
