Moe’s Southwest Grill, the fast-casual restaurant chain best known for creating mouthwatering burritos to-order with fresh, craveable ingredients handcrafted for each guest, announced the appointment of Jason Dowd as executive chef. In this role, Dowd’s responsibilities will include developing and executing culinary strategies to drive the creativity and advancement of Moe’s already robust menu options.

“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to join the Moe’s family and bring fresh culinary concepts to both new and longtime fans of the brand,” Dowd says. “My experience in evolving culinary menus lends itself perfectly to this role, and I look forward to being part of the next chapter of Moe’s Southwest Grill.”

Jason joins Moe’s team with more than 15 years of experience leading culinary strategies to continually innovate menu development for large restaurant groups. Prior to joining the Moe’s team, he was the corporate executive chef and director of culinary for Consumer Capital Partners, overseeing Tom’s Urban, Live Basil Pizza, and Smashburger, and before that he served as research and development managing chef at Darden Restaurants.

“Jason is no stranger to diversifying brands and deepening the menu offerings of beloved family restaurants,” says Bruce Schroeder, president of Moe’s Southwest Grill. “We look forward the positive impact his vast knowledge and experience will bring to Moe’s menu to help take the brand to new heights in the industry.”