Ojos Locos Names Joe Hummel CEO
Ojos Locos strengthens leadership team with industry veterans to drive growth and operational excellence.
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Ojos Locos Sports Cantina has appointed Joe Hummel as CEO and Clay Mingus as Chief Legal Officer, both of whom bring extensive experience in the restaurant industry. Hummel aims to strengthen unit-level performance and capitalize on growth opportunities across the Southwest, building upon the brand’s reputation for culturally authentic sports-viewing experiences. Their leadership is expected to focus on sustainable growth and operational excellence as the brand continues its evolution.
Why It Matters
The leadership transitions suggest a renewed emphasis on unit economics and operational consistency, which could impact franchisee performance and brand scalability in existing and new territories.
Ojos Locos Sports Cantina has named Joe Hummel as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 2023. Hummel, a veteran of the restaurant industry, previously served as COO and partner of Twin Peaks. During his tenure at Twin Peaks, he played a crucial role in expanding the brand from 14 locations to 115, gaining insights into restaurant operations, development, and multi-unit management. Hummel is recognized for his commitment to optimizing unit performance, emphasizing profitability, quality, and customer experience. He articulated his philosophy, stating, “The brands that stand the test of time are the ones that obsess over the fundamentals,” highlighting his focus on exceptional food and hospitality as essential ingredients for sustainable growth.
Alongside Hummel, Clay Mingus has been appointed as Chief Legal Officer, bringing extensive experience in operations and legal compliance, particularly in franchise growth and support. Mingus aims to ensure that Ojos Locos builds a solid foundation for future growth while maintaining the cultural and hospitable essence that has made the brand successful. He remarked, “Ojos Locos has built a sports cantina that guests genuinely connect with, and that creates tremendous opportunity for the future.”
