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.
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
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.

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.

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.

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