The popular quick-service seafood chain Long John Silver's is looking to enhance its executive team with a handful of key additions and promotions this month.
For starters, Peter Czizek has joined Long John Silver’s crew as the new VP of culinary innovation after years of creating innovative new menus for eateries such as Applebee's, Dave & Buster's, Brinker International and Macaroni Grill. Czizek began his career working his way up as a seafood chef in fine dining and scratch kitchens soon after receiving his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin.
Also new to Silver’s is Margo Mize, who has served as an executive in various restaurant and retail spheres for more than 20 years, and will be taking on the senior VP role for the LJS marketing team. She has played a role in turning around two restaurant brands, and comes to LJS from Sweet CeCe's Frozen Yogurt & Treats, where she was the chief marketing officer.
The new VP of media and promotions for LJS is Marilyn Nicholson – Nicholson has spent more than 20 years in the quick service marketing industry, including 15 years at Scoppechio, where she led media strategy and consumer activation for a variety of national, regional and local retail clients.
Like Czizek, Mize and Nicholson, Toni Bianco has also dedicated a majority of his career to foodservice; Bianco will be assuming the role of VP of LJS operations. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from Abilene Christian University, Bianco found work as a chef and caterer. He has spent his time “managing a South African olive and wine estate before joining Aramark, then finally Papa John's where he was promoted to vice president, Asia,” before arriving at LJS.
All new members of the leadership team bring extensive experience to the LJS boardroom and kitchen, according to James O'Reilly, chief executive officer for the foodservice chain.
"These new leadership team members have deep industry experience and proven track records of accomplishment," said O'Reilly. "We're ready to work together to leverage our strategic plan and customer insights to drive culinary, service, and asset innovation toward our vision of becoming America's favorite seafood restaurant."
