Wright joined Potbelly in 2020. Under his leadership, Potbelly successfully expanded their footprint and developed one of the fastest-growing digital platforms in the restaurant industry. His efforts culminated in a successful acquisition of Potbelly by RaceTrac in 2025. Prior to joining Potbelly, Wright held senior roles at The Wendy’s Co., Charley’s Philly Steaks, Checker’s Drive-In Restaurants and Domino’s Pizza.

Davila joined Dutch Bros Coffee in 2023 and has been instrumental in driving brand recognition, customer affinity, and consistent sales growth, all while rapidly expanding the brand’s footprint across the United States. Prior to joining Dutch Bros Coffee, Davila held chief marketing officer roles at CKE Restaurant Holdings and P.F. Chang’s, as well as marketing leadership roles at Bimbo Bakeries USA.

In connection with the appointments of Wright and Davila, William Floyd and Samuel Borgese have each announced their retirements from the board, effective Dec. 31, 2025. Floyd will also step down from his position as Chairperson of the board concurrently with his retirement. The board has unanimously elected Douglas Babb, a member of the board since 2018, to serve as chairperson of the board, effective as of the date of Floyd’s retirement. 

“We are grateful for the impact Bill and Sam have had on El Pollo Loco,” said Babb. “Under their leadership and guidance, El Pollo Loco has gotten back to its roots of menu innovation, operational excellence, and new unit growth.” 

Prior to joining the Board, Babb served for seven years as chief executive officer of Cooper Clinic, P.A., a large, multispecialty, physician-owned clinic. He also served as executive vice president, chief administrative and legal officer, and secretary of Beverly Enterprises, a provider of healthcare services to the elderly, from 2000 to 2006. Prior to that, Babb served as senior vice president and chief of staff and senior vice president, merchandise business unit for the Burlington Northern Santa Corp. from 1995 to 2000. 

“I’m pleased to welcome Bob and Tana as independent directors to the El Pollo Loco Board,” said Babb. “Both have a proven track record of scaling successful brands nationally and internationally, as well as deep industry experience across the quick-serve and fast-casual sectors.” 

With the retirements of Floyd and Borgese, independent board member Deborah Gonzales has been named chairperson of the compensation committee, and independent board member Joe Taylor has been appointed chairperson of the audit committee, with such changes to become effective upon Floyd’s and Borgese’s retirements.

“As we usher in the next chapter of growth for El Pollo Loco, these changes reflect our ongoing commitment to maximize shareholder value,” said Williams. “I would like to thank Bill and Sam for their service, and welcome once again our new members.”

Source: El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc.