Ascent Hospitality Management names new VP of franchise sales

Ascent Hospitality Management, the franchisor of the Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. brands, announced that it has promoted Natalie Hansen to the leadership position of vice president of franchise sales.

According to Ascent, Hansen has instrumental in spearheading franchise growth at the company. The new vice president most recently served as senior director of development.

Hansen joined Ascent in 2001 and brings more than 25 years of franchising experience to the position. The executive closed more than 125 signed deals, Ascent notes. This includes securing the largest deal in Huddle House history with a 20-unit franchise deal in Texas. She is also responsible for the Perkins Griddle and Go brand arriving in Alberta, Canada for the first time.

“Natalie has played a key role in leading our traditional and non-traditional franchise development for Perkins and Huddle House,” said Peter Ortiz, chief development officer at Ascent Hospitality Management. “This advancement spotlights her contributions toward our growth and her dedication to developing exceptional brands that attract consumers and franchise partners.”

Prior to joining Ascent Hospitality Management, Hansen served as senior director of development for REGO Restaurants, parent company of Quiznos and Taco Del Mar. During her tenure at REGO, Hansen supported both brands, assisting owners throughout the franchising process while also expanding locations for the company.

Hansen gained franchise experience while operating and owning a Quiznos location in Greenwood, Colorado.

“I’ve been fortunate to experience franchising as a franchisor and owner-operator. My personal experience as a franchisee gave me a deep understanding from that perspective that I have been able to leverage for supporting entrepreneurs looking to build their legacies and be part of successful brands,” Hansen said. “Since I have joined Ascent, we have revitalized our franchising program through innovative marketing strategies, lead generation campaigns, and advanced technology systems designed to support our franchise partners in building successful and lasting businesses.

I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and excited about our growth trajectory.”

Founded in 2019, Ascent Hospitality Management operates more than 600 restaurant locations in the United States and Canada.