US-based Mexican quick-service restaurant Taco John’s has announced the appointment of Jackie Secor as its new chief operating officer (COO).
With more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Secor’s expertise is expected to drive strategic initiatives and streamline operations across the board.
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Secor has risen from a job as shift manager at Auntie Anne’s to senior vice-president of operations and training at GoTo Foods, equipping her with a perspective on brand management from the frontline.
Her strategic approach is to align operations with data and analytics to enhance profitability, and she brings this focus on operational excellence and performance optimisation to Taco John’s.
In her new role, Secor will oversee restaurant operations, technology and training, while working closely with supply chain, marketing and development.
She aims to ensure that franchisees receive unparalleled support and to foster the brand’s people-first culture, which she believes is key to growing average unit volume (AUV) for existing franchisees and expanding the brand’s reach.
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By GlobalDataTaco John’s president and CEO Heather Neary stated: “Jackie is the kind of leader who brings both strategic discipline and a deep respect for the people who make the business run every day.”
“She’s a champion for franchisees, a data-driven decision-maker and a true operator at heart. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the executive team at such an exciting time in the brand’s evolution.”
Her appointment coincides with Taco John’s expansion plans, which include the introduction of the Path to Ownership framework and an optimised business model to bolster franchisee support and sustainable growth.
Secor’s ability to foster collaborative franchisee relationships will be crucial in reinforcing the brand’s commitment to its people-first culture and in achieving its goal of increased AUV for current operators and strategic entry to new markets.
Founded in 1969 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Taco John’s operates and franchises 350 restaurants across 22 US states.
