Ascent Hospitality Management Ushers in New Leadership to Shape Its Next Chapter

CEO Paul Damico taps seasoned industry talent to accelerate innovation and operational momentum

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ascent Hospitality Management CEO Paul Damico is setting a bold course for the next chapter of the family-dining franchisor and its legacy brands, Perkins American Food Co. and Huddle House. Central to this vision is the strategic placement of top-tier talent into pivotal leadership roles, including Jon Gordon as Chief Creative Officer and Jenifer Perrett as Vice President of Marketing for Huddle House, further strengthening brand innovation and growth.

Both Perkins and Huddle House have been evolving in recent years, and the expanded leadership team underscores Ascent Hospitality Management’s commitment to elevating hospitality, modernizing operations, and reimagining what’s possible in family dining.

“Our new lineup of leaders brings proven track records and extensive industry expertise,” said Paul Damico, CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management. “By bringing in seasoned talent, we’re able to accelerate the learning curve and continue the momentum behind transforming these beloved brands. I’ve had the honor of working alongside several of these individuals, all of whom embody the values, ethics, and spirit of collaboration that define our company’s culture of innovation and teamwork.”

Damico himself brings more than four decades of food and beverage experience within the hospitality industry, and specializes in stewarding multi-brand operations. His prior leadership roles include serving as CEO of Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Global Franchise Group, and Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill, as well as senior positions at Focus Brands (now GoTo Foods).

Jon Gordon

Jon Gordon is an accomplished in-house agency leader with a proven record of transforming brand strategy, elevating creative output, and enhancing team performance across global restaurant portfolios. He excels at translating consumer and brand insights into breakthrough campaigns that drive traffic, increase sales, and strengthen long-term brand equity. Gordon is also known for fostering innovative, collaborative cultures, empowering creative talent, and positioning in-house agencies as trusted strategic partners to the business.

“The appointment of a Chief Creative Officer represents an essential step in building our internal Creative Agency, designed to give our brands greater control and influence over marketing and brand positioning, while delivering higher-quality, cost-effective work and a stronger return on investment,” said Damico.

Jenifer Perrett

Jenifer Perrett is a seasoned and collaborative marketing leader with more than 20 years of experience driving brand growth across both agency and client-side roles. She brings deep expertise in brand development, consumer engagement, and integrated campaign execution, with a strong background in destination and franchised fast-casual brands. Perrett most recently served as Vice President of Brand Marketing for Tropical Smoothie Café, where she led the evolution of the “Tropic Time” campaign and guided the company’s first comprehensive brand platform. Her creative vision, strategic insight, and proven ability to build strong, cross-functional teams make her an ideal fit to lead Huddle House into its next phase of growth and brand evolution.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Jon and Jenifer to our executive team,” added Damico. “Their leadership, creativity, and expertise will play a vital role in advancing our mission to deliver exceptional guest experiences and sustain brand growth.

To learn more about franchising with Huddle House or Perkins American Food Co., visit www.ascenthm.com/franchising.

About Ascent Hospitality Management

Ascent Hospitality Management is the parent company of Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. and was founded to acquire and invigorate storied brands to drive long-term growth. With over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada, the company's mission is "Bringing friends and families together, over delicious food, served from the heart." Huddle House and Perkins each have more than 60 years of serving award-winning, made-to-order breakfast and all-day favorites with a smile to families and friends nationwide. Visit ascenthm.com for additional information on both brands and franchise opportunities.