Qdoba Welcomes New Franchise Development Chief

San Diego-based Qdoba Mexican Eats announced that it has hired former Potbelly executive Peter Ortiz as its new vice president of franchise development.

In this role, Ortiz will direct the 730-unit brand’s strategic franchise expansion across key markets in the United States and Canada, the company said in a statement.

“Peter has a well-earned reputation in the franchise industry as an accomplished executive who truly understands every facet of multi-unit franchise development,” said Tim Welsh, chief development officer at Qdoba. “As we launch an aggressive growth strategy, Peter is going to play a critical role in bringing our concept to new regions and expanding our footprint in existing territories through franchising.”

Ortiz brings more than 30 years of relevant executive-level experience to Qdoba, having previously led franchise development efforts for brands including Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Carvel Ice Cream and Schlotzsky’s.

Qdoba said Ortiz’s efforts have netted sales of nearly 2,000 franchises throughout the United States and internationally. In his most recent role at Potbelly, he led the brand’s franchise growth strategy and nearly doubled the brand’s franchise footprint through multi-unit deals.