Portillo’s has appointed Christopher Hansen as its new Head of Culinary, strengthening the company’s product innovation capabilities as it continues expanding beyond its traditional Midwest footprint.
According to Nation’s Restaurant News, Hansen will lead culinary strategy across Portillo’s restaurant system, overseeing menu innovation, product development, food quality standards and culinary operations.
The appointment comes as Portillo’s continues executing its long-term national expansion strategy. Hansen has three decades of experience in culinary leadership roles. Portillo’s President and CEO Brett Patterson said Hansen would play a role in the brand’s menu evolution as the 100-unit Portillo’s grows.
Founded in 1963, the Chicago-based chain has built a loyal following around iconic menu items including Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, char-grilled burgers and chocolate cake. Today, the company operates more than 90 restaurants across multiple U.S. states while continuing to open new locations in high-growth markets.
As the company expands into new geographic markets, culinary leadership will be instrumental in preserving brand consistency while identifying opportunities to attract new customer segments.
