Leading fast-casual chain VERTS Mediterranean Grill, announced a series of new executive hires that will support the organization’s growth and expansion across the U.S. These new positions mark a major milestone for the company as VERTS grows into a national chain most recently entering new markets that include Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia.
“Our new executive team represents industry leaders with extraordinary vision for our future,” says Michael Heyne, CEO and co-founder of VERTS. “Their wealth of knowledge and experience will help advance VERTS to 200 restaurants by 2020.”
The new hires include Andreas Sossong as Chief Financial Officer. After gaining robust experience in finance and investment banking, Sossong has dedicated his career to management consulting most recently at Oliver Wyman. With a keen focus on strategy, he has advised leaders for both retail and consumer services across Europe, North America and South America. In his role, Sossong will mitigate financial risks as well as oversee financial planning and reporting.
Stefan Boyd has been appointed Vice President of Finance. Boyd holds an abundance of experience in financial management, analysis and system development. Having served as an Actuarial Analyst and most recently an Investment Banking Associate for J.P. Morgan, Boyd critically analyzes data and projections necessary for optimal growth.
Also joining the team is Rachael Kelly Marcus as Vice President of Human Resources. Marcus is a seasoned HR leader in the restaurant industry working with teams such as Sonic Drive-In and Pizza Hut of America. As VP of HR, Marcus will utilize her experience to direct VERTS’ organizational vision, structure, and staffing goals that will result in successful administration of the VERTS mission.
Steve Barrow has come aboard as Director of IT. With a passion for computers and the restaurant industry, Barrow has run IT and consulted on technology with companies that include Luby’s and Fuddruckers. Barrow will drive operation and marketing success through strategic execution of IT infrastructure and policies.
Accompanying these new executive positions, several current team members were promoted within the organization. This includes Zachary Johnson to Director of Accounting, Kevin Blackburn to VP of Development, and Keith Peterson to VP of Marketing.
In the upcoming months, VERTS plans to hire additional executives, directors, and managers to lead operations, marketing and human resource efforts. The roles include a Chief Operating Officer and Director of Brand Marketing. The company is actively seeking and interviewing candidates.
“When VERTS first began in 2011, we envisioned what the future looked like. We’ve finally arrived,” says Heyne. “The caliber of talent that has joined our team is remarkable. With an aggressive growth plan and deliberate hiring strategy, we have positioned ourselves as fast-casual leaders.”
Over the last year, VERTS has grown its corporate team from 15 to over 50 employees.
