Taco Bell franchisee reorganizes executive team to drive more growth

Diversified Restaurant Group, one of Taco Bell’s largest franchisees, has restructured its leadership team to drive more growth. The 360-plus-unit company, which also operates Arby’s restaurants across multiple states, has appointed Todd Kelly as brand president, reporting directly to CEO SG Ellison.

Kelly previously served as chief operating officer of the company and in his newly created role, he is tasked with driving brand vision, operational strategy and long-term growth priorities.

Additionally, Tom Douglas assumes the role of chief operating officer, effective immediately. In this position, he will oversee the day-to-day operations of the company’s restaurants to achieve consistent execution. Bob Schalow, senior vice president of operations, will expand responsibilities to oversee all restaurant operations in California and northern Nevada and report to Douglas.

Isaiah Ritchie will serve as vice president of operations for Southern California, assuming Schalow's day-to-day responsibilities, and Gursimran Ghumman will serve as vice president of operations for Northern California and Northern Nevada.

Finally, Jason Dunn assumes the role of chief restaurant officer, tasked with leading brand relations and the restaurant excellence departments, as well as supporting the operations teams.

With this reorganization, Ellison, who was promoted to CEO in 2023, will focus on portfolio growth and innovative opportunities. DRG, for instance, has several Taco Bell Cantinas in its portfolio and was the first franchisee to add the chain’s in-shop Live Más Café concept, which has since grown to more than 30 locations.

"These structural changes are a proactive investment in our future," Ellison said in a statement. "By refining our leadership alignment, we are not only reinforcing our commitment to maintaining best-in-class restaurant operations today, but we are also building the scalable infrastructure necessary to drive our long-term strategic growth. I am confident that this team is uniquely poised to lead DRG as we continue to innovate and expand both our same-store sales and footprint."

Las Vegas-based Diversified Restaurant Group was founded in 2014 when David Grieve and SG Ellison acquired 85 Taco Bell restaurants on the West Coast. The company has since grown to operate more than 360 restaurants across Taco Bell and Arby’s in multiple states.