Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria as well as Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced the appointment of Alfred Naddaff as its national franchise development director.

“As a internationally acclaimed group of Italian restaurants, we strive to hire dynamic, high-caliber executives to drive our company’s success,” says chef Anthony Russo, CEO of Russo’s. “Alfred is this kind of leader. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our growing talent pool. I’m confident he’ll serve as a tremendous asset in helping us recruit and identify excellent franchisees for future Russo’s locations.”

In his new role as director of national franchise development, Naddaff will work closely with prospective and existing franchisees to explore single and multi-unit ownership, discover potential sites for Russo’s restaurants, and manage Russo’s franchising initiatives in the U.S. Russo’s recent franchise growth includes expansion into Hawaii, Austin, Oklahoma, and the Southeast—there are currently 34 restaurants open with more than 60 in development as well as several in the Middle East.

Prior to joining Russo’s, Naddaff was the franchise director for Boston Market Restaurants and one of the founding partners of Einstein Brothers Bagels. He has also worked in franchise development for Dunkin Donuts and has served as an independent franchise consultant to companies in the beauty and restaurant industry. With this wealth of experience, combined with an entrepreneurial family background, Naddaff brings more than 30 years of experience to the Russo’s team.

“I’m thrilled to have found a place in such an outstanding company,” Naddaff says. “I’m honored to work alongside Anthony—he’s very passionate and authentic with his approach. This is a unique company where everyone believes in the products, and I’m excited to get more people involved in franchising with our opportunities.”

Naddaff has recently relocated to Houston from Boston, and is a graduate of Kenyon College in Ohio.