Blaze Pizza Adds to Executive Team Ahead of Growth Phase

Two former Focus Brands VPs have joined the executive leadership team at the fast-casual brand Blaze Pizza.

Kevin Moran takes over as the chain’s chief development officer, while Johnny Tellez becomes its chief operations officer. Both hires have been appointed during what Blaze Pizza calls “a pivotal phase of advancement” for the brand as it looks to expand its domestic and global footprint, among other objectives.

Moran, formerly the VP of strategic development at the 6,600-plus-unit Focus Brands, brings two-plus decades of experience in financial planning and accounting. As CDO, he will be charged with nurturing strategic alliances and accelerating the brand’s global growth trajectory.

Tellez, Focus Brands’ former VP of training and operations, brings experience in enhancing customer experience and operational effectiveness. As COO, Tellez will focus on delivery and uniform quality, among other operational items.

“Their outstanding qualifications and proven track record of success assure us of our continued ability to provide an exemplary experience for our franchisees and patrons as we move forward into our next phase of expansion,” says Beto Guajardo, CEO of Blaze Pizza, in a press release.