El Pollo Loco Hires Former Taco Bell President As CEO

El Pollo Loco has announced that Elizabeth Williams has been appointed as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer by its Board of Directors. Effective March 11, Williams enters the position with a wealth of experience that will help lead high-growth, multi-unit retail, restaurant and service businesses.

She has an extensive background that includes working ten years with Yum! Brands and Taco Bell between 2010 and 2020 as Chief Financial Officer and President of Taco Bell International. Across 30 countries, Williams was instrumental in pushing operational improvements along with sales and profit growth. 

Photo: El Pollo Loco

“We are excited to welcome Liz Williams as our new Chief Executive Officer,” says William Floyd, Chairman of the El Pollo Board. “Throughout her career, Liz has demonstrated her ability to accelerate growth in food and beverage brands while simultaneously improving financial performance. We believe she has the skills and experience necessary to lead El Pollo Loco as we capitalize on the significant opportunity ahead of us.”

According to Stock Analysis, El Pollo Loco’s revenue has grown at an average rate of 2.02% each year since 2012. It mostly operates on the West Coast, but also has locations in Colorado, Texas, and Louisiana. With Williams as the CEO, she can help El Pollo Loco become a bigger household name and expand to other cities.

Photo: Media Library

“I am truly honored to join El Pollo Loco and be named Chief Executive Officer of this one-of-a-kind brand. El Pollo Loco’s fire-grilled chicken and high-quality, fresh ingredients create a better-for-you brand that is unparalleled in the restaurant industry. I believe that the opportunities to accelerate the growth of our brands are substantial. While the Company was born in Mexico over 40 years ago and has become an iconic West Coast brand, I believe we are just getting started. I look forward to working with the Company’s exceptional management team, our team members, suppliers, and franchise partners as we execute on our strategic vision and write the next chapter for El Pollo Loco,” Williams added.

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