El Pollo Loco Named Damon Thomas COO
The restaurant chain appointed a new chief operating officer and introduced seasonal menu additions.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in People
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El Pollo Loco has appointed Damon Thomas as its new chief operating officer, as confirmed by an SEC filing. The company also launched several new limited-time fall menu items to drive seasonal growth.
Why it matters
The company is using menu innovation to broaden its appeal to both existing and new customers. These new beverage platforms were specifically designed to capture the afternoon snacking daypart.
Damon Thomas will receive an annual base salary of $425,000 as COO, with a target cash bonus opportunity set at 75% of that base salary. These compensation terms were disclosed in a formal filing.
The players
Damon Thomas
He is the newly appointed chief operating officer at El Pollo Loco who reports directly to the CEO.
Liz Williams
She serves as the chief executive officer of El Pollo Loco and oversees the company's executive leadership.
El Pollo Loco
This is a restaurant chain operating across the United States that specializes in fire-grilled chicken.
The details
The chain has introduced a Caramel Apple ChataCoffee, Pumpkin Pie Mini Churros, and a Cheesy Enchilada Double Chicken Bowl to its lineup. Damon Thomas, who reports to CEO Liz Williams, joins the leadership team to oversee national operations.
Timeline
The company held its earnings call in early August 2026.
Damon Thomas was named chief operating officer the week of September 29, 2026.
Market Landscape
This strategic hire and menu expansion reflect the broader restaurant industry trend of focusing on the afternoon snacking daypart to boost revenue. The company is positioning itself to better compete with other quick-service chains through targeted product innovation.
Customers can expect the new seasonal items to be available at participating locations nationwide for a limited time. These changes do not immediately affect core menu pricing or standard service models for the average diner.
The takeaway
The addition of specific seasonal items indicates that the chain is prioritizing high-margin snack sales to differentiate its offerings. Investors and diners should monitor whether these menu changes successfully increase foot traffic during traditionally slower afternoon hours.
Further reading
For more information on executive changes and leadership updates, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nation's Restaurant News.
Live Poll
Do you prefer fast food menus that change frequently with the seasons?
