Dog Haus adds franchise veterans to executive team
Dog Haus strengthens leadership team as it aims for 1,500 locations.
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Dog Haus has newly appointed Chris Rigassio as president and chief development officer and Garen Khodaverdian as COO to drive its expansion strategy. Both executives have a strong franchising background and are set to enhance operational efficiencies while pursuing a plan for 1,500 locations across various markets.
Why It Matters
This leadership transition suggests a significant focus on enhancing franchisee recruitment and operational protocols, potentially affecting unit economics and territory availability for prospective franchisees.
Dog Haus has announced the addition of Chris Rigassio and Garen Khodaverdian to its executive team as the brand aims for a significant growth target of 1,500 locations. Rigassio has been appointed as president and chief development officer, and Khodaverdian as chief operating officer, both reporting to CEO Michael Montagano. The appointments signal a strategic shift towards enhancing development capabilities and operational efficiencies as Dog Haus seeks to expand into new and existing markets.
Rigassio will spearhead the company’s area director program, focusing on attracting multi-unit operators from other fast-casual brands, and will oversee key development initiatives including site selection and construction processes. Khodaverdian will concentrate on operational improvements, managing costs, and refining the customer experience as the franchise grows. Both executives also join the ownership partnership alongside Dog Haus's founders and Montagano, creating a unique alignment of economic and governance interests.
The new leadership comes as Dog Haus looks to leverage the extensive experience of Rigassio and Khodaverdian, who began their careers in the restaurant industry as part-time employees at Jersey Mike's Subs and have since become successful multi-unit franchisees, operating over 100 locations across various brands including Jersey Mike's and Wingstop.
