US-based fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain El Pollo Loco has named Robert D Wright and Tana Davila as independent members of its board of directors with effect from 1 January 2026.

Wright is CEO of Potbelly Sandwich Works, a role he has held since 2020.

During his tenure, Potbelly has expanded its store base and built out its digital platform, leading up to its acquisition by RaceTrac in 2025.

His previous experience includes senior positions at the Wendy’s Company, Charley’s Philly Steaks and Domino’s Pizza.

Davila is chief marketing officer at Dutch Bros Coffee, which she joined in 2023.

She has led brand expansion across the US and previously served as chief marketing officer at CKE Restaurant Holdings and P.F. Chang’s, with earlier marketing roles at Bimbo Bakeries USA.

El Pollo Loco CEO Elizabeth Williams, who assumed the role in March 2024, stated: “I am thrilled to have Bob and Tana join our board.

“We believe that their significant restaurant industry experience will serve us well as we grow El Pollo Loco in our existing markets and across the country.” 

The appointments will follow the planned retirements of board members William “Bill” Floyd and Samuel Borgese, on 31 December 2025.

Floyd will also step down as board chair on that date.

Douglas Babb, who has served on the board since 2018, has been unanimously elected to succeed Floyd as chair upon his retirement.

Before joining the board, Babb spent seven years as CEO of Cooper Clinic, a multi-speciality practice.

Babb stated: “We are grateful for the impact Bill and Sam have had on El Pollo Loco.

“Under their leadership and guidance, El Pollo Loco has gotten back to its roots of menu innovation, operational excellence and new unit growth.” 

Independent board member Deborah Gonzales will become chair of the Compensation Committee, and independent board member Joe Taylor will chair the Audit Committee. Both changes will take effect upon the retirements of Floyd and Borgese.