Portillo’s has named Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling as its new Chief Development Officer, bringing in a seasoned industry leader to steer its next phase of growth.
The Chicago-based fast-casual chain said Pecoraro-Striepling will oversee key pillars of its expansion strategy, including real estate, site selection, restaurant design prototypes and construction. Her role will be central to scaling the brand’s footprint while maintaining operational efficiency and guest experience.
Pecoraro-Striepling joins from Miller’s Ale House, where she served as Chief Development Officer, leading enterprise-wide expansion and development initiatives. She brings more than 25 years of experience across major restaurant and retail brands, including Papa Johns, Bloomin’ Brands and Darden Restaurants.
Announcing the appointment, CEO Brett Patterson said the company sees “tremendous opportunity ahead,” highlighting her experience in scaling brands while preserving their core identity.
In her new role, Pecoraro-Striepling will also focus on refining prototype formats and improving development efficiencies, including construction timelines and costs, areas that are increasingly critical as restaurant brands look to expand sustainably.
The leadership move comes as Portillo’s recalibrates its growth strategy following rapid expansion in newer markets. The company is now shifting toward a more disciplined and measured development approach, prioritizing long-term performance over aggressive unit rollout.
Founded in Chicago, Portillo’s has grown from a single hot dog stand into a national brand with more than 100 locations across the United States, offering a company-owned model built around dine-in, drive-thru, takeaway and delivery formats.
For the global franchise and restaurant industry, the appointment signals a continued focus on experienced development leadership as brands balance expansion ambitions with operational discipline and evolving consumer expectations.
