Freebirds World Burrito, the fast-casual burrito concept owned by Tavistock Restaurants, announced the addition of industry veteran Bobby Shaw as senior vice president of operations. In this role, Shaw will oversee more than 90 Freebirds World Burrito locations across seven states and support the growth of the brand through strategic planning initiatives and profit management practices.
“We are thrilled with the addition of Bobby to our company,” says Charles Lewis, chairman of Tavistock Restaurants. “He brings experience, drive, passion, and a broad base of operational knowledge and execution, which will help us build on Freebirds’ success. I am so pleased to have Bobby join our executive leadership team.”
With more than 20 years of operational experience in the restaurant industry, Shaw spent the last decade with Chipotle Mexican Grill, during the company’s growth.
Most recently, he served as an executive regional director for one of Chipotle’s most successful regions in the U.S., responsible for 228 restaurants in ten states. Under his leadership, Chipotle entered a number of new markets that contributed to new restaurant opening sales for the company. Bobby also developed a team that achieved 100 percent internal promotions ans company leading results in comparative sales and comparative transaction growth.
Shaw began his career with McDonald’s Corporation in 1984 as a crewmember, where he rose through the ranks to multi-unit management, before joining Chipotle.
“We are all excited to add Bobby to the executive management team at Freebirds,” says Keith Davis, chief financial officer of Freebirds World Burrito. “His experience and hands on management is just the kind of leadership we need to optimize our operations and accelerate growth.”
“Freebirds is unique—it is a compelling brand with a loyal following,” Shaw says. “I look forward to finding ways to help the team capitalize on this phenomenon and expand the business. With the broader support from Tavistock Group, we can accelerate this brand’s growth. It’s a great time to be at Freebirds.”
Freebirds World Burrito is known for its approach to burritos, tacos, and nachos. Clientele can choose from a variety of burrito sizes, tortilla flavors, and ingredients including grass-fed beef, hormone-free chicken, and slow-roasted carnitas. Entrées are topped with chopped vegetables and salsas, including the restaurant’s Death Sauce.
