Pappas Restaurants Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pappas Restaurants has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, financial management, administrative operations, and municipal governance.

Committed to culinary excellence, Pappas Restaurants delivers diverse dining experiences across multiple cuisines while maintaining a strong focus on operational consistency and high-quality service standards throughout the hospitality industry.

Leadership Roles at Pappas Restaurants

  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Ernest Pekmezaris
  • Borough Council President - Jennifer Dean-Inman
  • Chief Information Officer - Tom Giordano
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Leslie Dragna
  • Ernest Pekmezaris - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Ernest Pekmezaris, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Pappas Restaurants, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire enterprise. Overseeing comprehensive financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer ensures the long-term stability of the organization. This role involves monitoring cash flow, managing investment portfolios, and directing budgetary processes across diverse restaurant concepts. By analyzing market trends, Ernest Pekmezaris optimizes revenue streams and controls operational costs to maximize profitability. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer coordinates with the board to provide transparent financial reporting and strategic guidance on expansion initiatives. Through rigorous risk assessment, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer maintains a balanced capital structure. This leadership function supports the overall mission by providing the necessary resources for consistent quality and service. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer drives financial performance through disciplined oversight and strategic resource management.

    Jennifer Dean-Inman - Borough Council President

    Jennifer Dean-Inman, the Borough Council President at Pappas Restaurants, oversees external relations and community engagement initiatives that impact the corporate footprint. Managing public policy interactions, the Borough Council President ensures alignment between organizational activities and local regulatory environments. This role involves navigating complex municipal landscapes to facilitate smooth operations for various restaurant locations. By building strong relationships with community stakeholders, Jennifer Dean-Inman drives positive brand perception and supports the company's market presence. The Borough Council President coordinates with executive leadership to address legislative challenges and identify opportunities for regional growth. Through proactive advocacy, the Borough Council President secures the necessary support for ongoing business development. This leadership function requires deep understanding of local governance and a commitment to sustainable community integration. Ultimately, the Borough Council President drives the company's reputation and operational stability by fostering productive partnerships within the diverse regions served by the organization.

    Tom Giordano - Chief Information Officer

    Tom Giordano, the Chief Information Officer at Pappas Restaurants, directs the digital infrastructure supporting a vast network of dining establishments. Managing complex data systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity across all restaurant locations. This role involves architecting secure point-of-sale networks and optimizing inventory management software to enhance operational efficiency. By integrating advanced analytics, Tom Giordano drives data-informed decision-making processes that improve customer service delivery. The Chief Information Officer oversees the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive corporate information. Through constant technological innovation, the Chief Information Officer maintains the competitive edge of the organization within the hospitality sector. This leadership position requires close collaboration with other executive leaders to align technical capabilities with long-term business objectives. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer secures the digital foundation necessary for sustained growth and reliable service across all regional operations.

    Leslie Dragna - Chief Administrative Officer

    Leslie Dragna, the Chief Administrative Officer at Pappas Restaurants, directs internal operations and organizational workflows to ensure peak efficiency. Managing human resources, corporate policies, and administrative support systems, the Chief Administrative Officer maintains high standards of workplace productivity. This role involves streamlining communication channels and overseeing the implementation of company-wide operational procedures. By fostering a culture of excellence, Leslie Dragna supports the diverse workforce required to deliver high-quality dining experiences. The Chief Administrative Officer coordinates with other executive leaders to align administrative functions with the broader strategic goals of the organization. Through the development of scalable management frameworks, the Chief Administrative Officer enhances the overall effectiveness of the corporate office. This leadership position requires constant attention to detail and a focus on organizational development. Ultimately, Leslie Dragna drives operational success by ensuring that all internal processes support the core mission of the restaurant group.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pappas Restaurants Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pappas Restaurants?
    Pappas Restaurants is led by Ernest Pekmezaris (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), along with executives such as Jennifer Dean-Inman (Borough Council President) and Tom Giordano (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Pappas Restaurants’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pappas Restaurants includes leaders such as Ernest Pekmezaris (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), Jennifer Dean-Inman (Borough Council President), Tom Giordano (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pappas Restaurants have?
    Pappas Restaurants has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pappas Restaurants’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pappas Restaurants includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Borough Council President, Chief Information Officer, Chief Administrative Officer.