AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Torchy’s Tacos announced that Chief Executive Officer GJ Hart is retiring, effective November 5th. Torchy’s Founder Mike Rypka has assumed the role of Interim CEO. Mr. Hart will serve as a consultant to the business.
Mike Rypka commented, “GJ has provided tremendous value to Torchy’s during his four years as CEO. He has contributed significantly to the growth and success of the brand, and his leadership has enabled us to attract some of the finest talent in the restaurant industry. We are incredibly proud of the Torchy’s team and excited about the many opportunities ahead of us. We thank GJ for all he has helped us achieve, and we wish him the very best as he embarks on his retirement.”
Under Hart’s leadership, Torchy’s expanded its geographic footprint of 45 restaurants to its current 96 locations in 10 states, including opening 26 locations in 2020 and 2021 during the global pandemic.
GJ Hart commented, “Torchy’s is by far one of the hottest brands in the industry today and I am so proud of the passionate team we have built. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading the organization to this point, and I am grateful to our employees and investors for their support and partnership as we have grown the business. I believe that Torchy’s will continue to have incredible success far into the future and I look forward to providing support throughout that journey.”
Hart continued, “I am looking forward to spending more time with my wife, four children and our growing brood of grandchildren. The global pandemic catalyzed a shift in priorities for many of us, and spending time with family now comes first in this next phase of my life and career. I plan to continue contributing to the hospitality industry, to which I’ve dedicated my career, by serving on boards and acting as a resource for leaders and entrepreneurs.”
About Torchy’s Tacos
The Torchy’s Tacos story began 15 years ago in Austin, Texas, when a man with a dream bought a food trailer and a vibrant red Vespa. Mike Rypka, founder of Torchy’s Tacos, built a menu out of experimental tacos that were coined by fans as “damn good.” Today, Torchy’s Tacos has 96 locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Kansas, Indiana, North Carolina and Tennessee that are committed to serving only the highest quality ingredients. By living the Damn Good mantra, Torchy’s Tacos is always innovating to deliver the most unique tacos, coveted queso and refreshing margaritas in the taco game, including the Taco of the Month, an untraditional taco offering that keeps taco junkies coming back for more. Visit www.torchystacos.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more information on Torchy’s Tacos.
