Dog Haus adds franchise veterans to executive team

Dog Haus has appointed franchise industry veterans Chris Rigassio and Garen Khodaverdian to its executive team as the fast-casual brand pursues its 1,500-location expansion strategy. Rigassio was named president and chief development officer, while Khodaverdian takes on the chief operating officer role. Both will report to CEO Michael Montagano, according to a company press release.

The appointments come as the Pasadena, California-based chain plans to expand across new and existing markets. Rigassio and Khodaverdian have also joined the company's ownership partnership alongside founders Hagop Giragossian, Quasim Riaz and André Vener, as well as Montagano.

As president and chief development officer, Rigassio will lead the company's area director program, with the goal of recruiting multi-unit operators from other fast-casual restaurant brands. He also will oversee development initiatives focused on site selection, construction and operational efficiencies. Khodaverdian will be responsible for operations, with a focus on improving efficiencies, managing costs and enhancing the customer experience as the brand grows.

Rigassio and Khodaverdian began their restaurant careers as part-time employees at Jersey Mike's Subs, later becoming multi-unit franchisees. They currently operate more than 100 restaurants across multiple brands, including Jersey Mike's and Wingstop.

"This is an unprecedented deal that bridges the gap between franchisor and franchisee, where economic and governance interests are truly aligned for the first time ever in our industry," Montagano said in a press release.