Taco John's International Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Taco John's International has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, financial management, and regional market expansion.

Driven by a commitment to quality fast-food service, Taco John's International delivers unique menu items like tacos and burritos while maintaining a strong focus on operational excellence and sustainable growth across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Taco John's International

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jeff Brands
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Heather Neary
  • Chief Financial Officer - Kristen Sandhurst
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jackie Secor
  • President - John Kuhn
  • President - Jeff Fennie
  • President - Valle Larelda
  • Jeff Brands - Chief Executive Officer

    Jeff Brands, the Chief Executive Officer at Taco John's International, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision for the fast-food brand. Overseeing the executive leadership team, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between menu innovation and market demand. This leadership role involves managing relationships with franchisees to maintain consistent service standards across the national footprint. By prioritizing operational efficiency, Jeff Brands drives the company toward increased profitability and brand recognition. The Chief Executive Officer monitors competitive trends within the hospitality sector to refine the value proposition of the restaurant chain. Through rigorous oversight of corporate initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health of the organization. Ultimately, Brands fosters a culture of excellence that supports the expansion of the brand into new territories while maintaining the core identity of the business.
    Jeff Brands

    Heather Neary - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Heather Neary, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Taco John's International, architects the strategic roadmap for the entire restaurant network. Managing the intersection of brand identity and operational execution, the President & Chief Executive Officer optimizes the delivery of snacks, desserts, and signature menu items. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the board to ensure the company meets aggressive growth targets. By streamlining internal processes, Heather Neary enhances the customer experience across all locations. The President & Chief Executive Officer evaluates market data to identify opportunities for menu diversification and service improvements. Through decisive action, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the competitive edge of the brand in a crowded fast-food landscape. Ultimately, Neary secures the long-term viability of the company by fostering innovation and operational discipline throughout the entire organization.
    Heather Neary

    Kristen Sandhurst - Chief Financial Officer

    Kristen Sandhurst, the Chief Financial Officer at Taco John's International, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies of the organization. Overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and investment planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains a robust balance sheet. This leadership role involves analyzing revenue streams from the diverse menu offerings to inform strategic decision-making. By implementing rigorous financial controls, Kristen Sandhurst mitigates risk and supports sustainable growth initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with the executive team to evaluate the financial feasibility of new market entries and infrastructure investments. Through precise forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer provides the data necessary for long-term planning and resource distribution. Ultimately, Sandhurst secures the financial stability of the company by maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility across all departments and regional operations.

    Jackie Secor - Chief Operating Officer

    Jackie Secor, the Chief Operating Officer at Taco John's International, directs the daily functions of the restaurant chain to ensure seamless service delivery. Overseeing supply chain logistics and kitchen efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards required for the preparation of tacos and burritos. This leadership role involves implementing standardized procedures that improve speed of service and food quality across the national network. By monitoring performance metrics, Jackie Secor identifies areas for operational improvement and cost reduction. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with regional managers to ensure consistent execution of corporate policies. Through the optimization of labor and inventory management, the Chief Operating Officer supports the overall profitability of the business. Ultimately, Secor drives the operational success of the company by ensuring that every restaurant location meets the rigorous expectations of the brand.
    Jackie Secor

    John Kuhn - President

    John Kuhn, the President at Taco John's International, directs the growth and development of the brand through focused market expansion. Overseeing the implementation of regional sales strategies, the President ensures that the company captures significant market share in key territories. This leadership role involves building strong partnerships with stakeholders to facilitate the opening of new restaurant locations. By analyzing regional consumer preferences, John Kuhn adapts the service model to meet local demands while maintaining brand consistency. The President coordinates with marketing and operations teams to launch successful promotional campaigns that drive foot traffic. Through the execution of strategic growth plans, the President supports the overall mission of the company to provide quality fast-food experiences. Ultimately, Kuhn drives the expansion of the brand by identifying and capitalizing on emerging opportunities within the competitive hospitality landscape.

    Jeff Fennie - President

    Jeff Fennie, the President at Taco John's International, architects the customer engagement and brand loyalty programs that define the company's market presence. Overseeing the development of digital platforms and loyalty initiatives, the President ensures that the brand remains relevant to modern consumers. This leadership role involves integrating technology into the customer journey to improve convenience and satisfaction. By leveraging data analytics, Jeff Fennie refines the marketing approach to increase repeat visits and brand affinity. The President collaborates with the product development team to ensure that new menu items align with consumer trends and preferences. Through the management of brand communications, the President strengthens the public perception of the company. Ultimately, Fennie drives the long-term success of the business by fostering deep connections with the customer base and enhancing the overall value proposition of the restaurant chain.

    Valle Larelda - President

    Valle Larelda, the President at Taco John's International, directs the human capital and organizational development strategies that support the company's workforce. Overseeing talent acquisition, training programs, and corporate culture initiatives, the President ensures that the organization attracts and retains top-tier professionals. This leadership role involves creating development pathways that empower employees to excel in their respective functions. By fostering an inclusive and high-performance environment, Valle Larelda drives productivity and innovation across all departments. The President works with the executive team to align workforce capabilities with the strategic goals of the company. Through the implementation of effective management practices, the President ensures that the organization remains agile and responsive to industry changes. Ultimately, Larelda secures the future of the company by investing in the people who deliver the quality service and products that define the brand.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Taco John's International Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Taco John's International?
    Taco John's International is led by Jeff Brands (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Heather Neary (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Kristen Sandhurst (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Taco John's International’s executive team?
    The executive team of Taco John's International includes leaders such as Jeff Brands (Chief Executive Officer), Heather Neary (President & Chief Executive Officer), Kristen Sandhurst (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Taco John's International have?
    Taco John's International has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Taco John's International’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Taco John's International includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President.