First Watch Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

First Watch has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and people.

Driven by a commitment to fresh, made-from-scratch meals, First Watch focuses on delivering a unique breakfast, brunch, and lunch experience across the eastern United States, emphasizing quality ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere.

Leadership Roles at First Watch

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kenneth Pendery
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Chris Tomasso
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Susana Caballero
  • Chief Operating Officer - Christopher Cunningham
  • President - Ken Pemdry
  • Chief Technology Officer - Alexander Ladur
  • Chief People Officer - Laura Sorensen
  • Kenneth Pendery - Chief Executive Officer

    Kenneth Pendery, the Chief Executive Officer at First Watch, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the restaurant group. Pendery guides the company's expansion across the eastern United States, ensuring alignment with the core mission of serving fresh, made-from-scratch breakfast, brunch, and lunch. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of quality and innovation, critical for maintaining the brand's reputation. By overseeing key operational decisions, Kenneth Pendery ensures that each location upholds the high standards First Watch is known for, driving sustained growth and market presence. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on long-term strategic planning and stakeholder value.
    Kenneth Pendery

    Chris Tomasso - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Chris Tomasso, the President & Chief Executive Officer at First Watch, spearheads the company's strategic direction and operational execution. Tomasso drives initiatives that enhance the customer experience and expand the restaurant group's footprint throughout the eastern United States. This involves optimizing menu offerings, which focus on fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch preparation for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The President & Chief Executive Officer also cultivates key partnerships and ensures robust financial performance. By championing innovation and operational excellence, Chris Tomasso reinforces First Watch's commitment to quality and growth, solidifying its position in the hospitality sector.
    Chris Tomasso

    Susana Caballero - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Susana Caballero, the President & Chief Executive Officer at First Watch, directs the strategic vision and comprehensive operational framework for the restaurant chain. Caballero oversees the expansion and management of locations across the eastern United States, ensuring adherence to the brand's commitment to fresh, made-from-scratch breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings. This executive leadership role involves driving innovation in menu development and enhancing the overall dining experience. By focusing on sustainable growth and operational efficiency, Susana Caballero ensures First Watch maintains its competitive edge and upholds its reputation for quality and service in the hospitality industry.

    Christopher Cunningham - Chief Operating Officer

    Christopher Cunningham, the Chief Operating Officer at First Watch, manages the day-to-day operations across the restaurant group's numerous locations in the eastern United States. Cunningham ensures that the brand's promise of fresh, made-from-scratch breakfast, brunch, and lunch is consistently delivered with exceptional quality and service. This role involves overseeing operational standards, driving efficiency, and supporting restaurant teams to achieve business objectives. By focusing on operational excellence, Christopher Cunningham plays a vital part in the company's growth and its ability to maintain a superior dining experience for customers.

    Ken Pemdry - President

    Ken Pemdry, the President at First Watch, directs key strategic initiatives and operational oversight for the restaurant group. Pemdry focuses on driving growth and ensuring the consistent delivery of the brand's signature fresh, made-from-scratch breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings across its locations in the eastern United States. This leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with franchisees and corporate teams to uphold quality standards and enhance the customer dining experience. By championing operational excellence, Ken Pemdry plays a critical role in maintaining First Watch's market position and advancing its expansion goals.

    Alexander Ladur - Chief Technology Officer

    Alexander Ladur, the Chief Technology Officer at First Watch, architects and oversees the company's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Ladur drives innovation in technology solutions that support operational efficiency and enhance the customer experience across the eastern United States. This includes managing point-of-sale systems, digital ordering platforms, and data analytics to inform business decisions. By ensuring robust and scalable technology, Alexander Ladur supports First Watch's mission of delivering fresh, made-from-scratch meals efficiently. The Chief Technology Officer's work is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the modern restaurant landscape.

    Laura Sorensen - Chief People Officer

    Laura Sorensen, the Chief People Officer at First Watch, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies for the restaurant group. Sorensen focuses on cultivating a positive and engaging work environment that supports the company's commitment to fresh, made-from-scratch meals and exceptional service across the eastern United States. This involves developing recruitment, training, and retention programs to build a high-performing team. By prioritizing employee development and well-being, Laura Sorensen ensures that First Watch attracts and retains top talent, crucial for delivering the brand's unique breakfast, brunch, and lunch experience and driving overall business success.
    Laura Sorensen

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding First Watch Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads First Watch?
    First Watch is led by Kenneth Pendery (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Chris Tomasso (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Susana Caballero (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of First Watch’s executive team?
    The executive team of First Watch includes leaders such as Kenneth Pendery (Chief Executive Officer), Chris Tomasso (President & Chief Executive Officer), Susana Caballero (President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does First Watch have?
    First Watch has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in First Watch’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of First Watch includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President.