US fast-casual chain Portillo’s has appointed Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling as its new chief development officer (CDO).

The announcement comes a month after the brand named Brett Patterson as its next president and CEO.

According to a company statement, Pecoraro-Striepling has more than 25 years of experience in large-scale restaurant development and international growth for major multi-unit restaurant and retail operators.

At Portillo’s, she will oversee the company’s development agenda. This includes real estate strategy, site selection, restaurant prototype design and construction activity.

Patterson said: “Jennifer brings the experience, strategic vision, and people-first leadership we need as we continue to expand Portillo’s into new and key markets.

“We see tremendous opportunity ahead, and Jennifer’s proven ability to responsibly scale brands while protecting what makes them special gives us great confidence in our ability to accelerate growth and bring Portillo’s to even more communities.”

Pecoraro-Striepling joins Portillo’s from Miller’s Ale House, where she also held the role of CDO.

She previously occupied leadership positions at Bloomin’ Brands, Darden Restaurants, Kohl’s, Papa Johns, and Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.

Commenting on her appointment, Pecoraro-Striepling said: “Portillo’s is a brand I grew up with in Chicago, so stepping into this role is both professionally exciting and personally meaningful.

“The company has built something truly special over the years, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to grow the brand while preserving the experience and quality that guests love.”