Salty Donut Names Maria Rivera CEO
The Miami-based baked goods and coffee chain has appointed a new chief executive to lead its growth across its cafes.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Desserts
The Salty Donut has named Maria Rivera its chief executive officer, a role she assumed in spring 2026 after about four months of work strengthening operations and building a leadership structure. The company, which serves premium baked goods and coffee at more than 20 cafes across eight states, announced the appointment on November 3, 2026.
Why it matters
The move places an executive with large-scale restaurant and franchise experience at the helm of a brand that has grown from a Miami pop-up into a multistate cafe chain. For Miami readers, it marks a leadership change at a locally founded company now operating well beyond the city.
The Salty Donut operates more than 20 cafes across eight states, up from a single Miami pop-up launched in 2015. Rivera previously built a 320-unit development pipeline at Smalls Sliders and served as president of Krispy Kreme U.S. and Canada, but the company has not released its revenue or expansion targets.
The players
The Salty Donut
A Miami-based chain of cafes serving premium baked goods and coffee across eight states.
Maria Rivera
An executive who previously led Smalls Sliders and served as president of Krispy Kreme U.S. and Canada, and who founded RC Hospitality Group.
Amanda Pizarro
The founder who launched The Salty as a Miami pop-up in 2015 and now serves as chief brand officer.
The details
Maria Rivera, founder and managing partner of RC Hospitality Group, was appointed CEO after previously leading Smalls Sliders. Amanda Pizarro, who launched The Salty as a pop-up in Miami in 2015, becomes founder and chief brand officer, while Andy Rodriguez will remain on the board.
Timeline
2015: Amanda Pizarro launches The Salty as a pop-up in Miami.
Spring 2026: Maria Rivera is appointed CEO of The Salty Donut.
November 3, 2026: The Salty Donut announces Rivera's appointment.
Market Landscape
Specialty bakery-cafe brands that began as single pop-ups have increasingly brought in operators with franchise and multiunit experience as they expand beyond their home market. The Salty Donut's leadership change follows that pattern, moving from founder-led growth to a professionally managed structure across eight states.
Miami residents who visit The Salty Donut may see changes in menu or cafe operations as the new CEO takes over. The company's cafes across eight states are the most direct points of contact for customers.
The takeaway
Leadership changes at growing dessert chains often shape whether a local favorite can maintain its character while expanding. Readers who follow the brand can watch for announced store openings or menu changes as the new CEO settles in.
Further reading
For more on the sweets scene in the area, explore Desserts coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fast Casual.
