Portillo's Executive and Leadership Team

Kevin Kalicak, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Portillo's, directs all fiscal planning, capital allocation, and treasury functions. Overseeing financial reporting and investor relations, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer ensures the long-term economic health of the organization. This leadership role involves managing corporate budgets, analyzing investment opportunities for new restaurant sites, and maintaining robust internal controls. By monitoring financial performance metrics across all regions, Kevin Kalicak directly impacts the strategic decision-making process of the executive board. Kalicak coordinates with other leaders to align capital expenditures with growth objectives, ensuring that the company maintains a strong balance sheet. Through disciplined financial oversight and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer supports the expansion of the restaurant chain. Ultimately, Kalicak secures the financial stability required to sustain competitive advantage in the hospitality industry.

Tony Darden, the Chief Operating Officer at Portillo's, manages all restaurant operations and supply chain logistics. Overseeing daily performance across the entire chain, the Chief Operating Officer ensures operational excellence and consistency in food preparation. This leadership role involves optimizing kitchen workflows and service speed to meet high customer demand in both the Midwest and western regions. By implementing rigorous quality control measures, Tony Darden directly impacts the efficiency and profitability of every location. Darden collaborates with regional managers to maintain strict adherence to safety protocols and service standards. Through the continuous refinement of operational processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the scalability of the business model. Ultimately, Darden secures the operational foundation necessary for sustained growth and consistent delivery of the signature menu items that define the company.

Denise Lauer, the Chief Marketing Officer at Portillo's, directs all brand positioning and consumer engagement initiatives. Overseeing national marketing campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent messaging across the Chicago metropolitan area and southern California markets. This leadership role involves managing digital presence, promotional strategy, and customer loyalty programs to drive traffic into restaurant locations. By analyzing market trends and consumer behavior, Denise Lauer directly impacts the growth of the brand. Lauer coordinates with the executive team to align marketing efforts with operational goals, ensuring that the unique identity of the restaurant chain remains prominent. Through targeted advertising and community outreach, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the market position of the company. Ultimately, Lauer secures long-term brand equity by maintaining high standards of communication and customer interaction across all service channels.

Jill Waite, the Chief People Officer at Portillo's, directs all human resources strategy, talent acquisition, and organizational development. Overseeing workforce management across the entire restaurant chain, the Chief People Officer ensures that staffing levels align with operational requirements in both the Midwest and western markets. This leadership role involves fostering a positive company culture, managing employee benefits, and implementing training programs that support career growth. By prioritizing talent retention and leadership development, Jill Waite directly impacts the quality of service provided to guests. Waite collaborates with the executive team to ensure that corporate values are integrated into daily operations. Through the creation of inclusive workplace policies and effective recruitment strategies, the Chief People Officer strengthens the organizational structure. Ultimately, Waite secures the human capital necessary to maintain high performance and operational success throughout the company.