Carin Stutz named CEO of Native Foods

Former Red Robin COO Carin Stutz has traded burgers for plants in her new role as CEO of Native Foods, a plant-based fast casual brand with 13 locations in California, Oregon, Colorado and Chicago, according to a company press release.

Stutz, who studied food and nutrition in college with a concentration on using soy-based foods as protein substitutes, is excited to get back to her roots.

"It was a forward-thinking notion at the time. Now, plant-based dishes are not only popular, they are a part of the everyday eating habits of diners," Stutz said in the release.

Most recently, Stutz served as executive vice president and chief operating office for Red Robin where she oversaw 560 restaurants across the U.S. and Canada. She has also served as president for McAlister's Deli with Focus Brands, chief executive officer and president of Cosi, and president of global business development for Brinker International, leading all operations and franchise development for 240 Chili's and Maggiano's restaurants around the globe.

Prior to her work at Brinker, Stutz was executive vice president of operations for Applebee's International Inc., and she also worked as vice president for the Central Division and later Pacific Division for Wendy's International, Inc.

"I look forward to helping the Native Foods team grow," Stutz said. "This unique brand is one of the true innovators in the area of creating plant-based food choices with delicious and flavor options. It's a wonderful opportunity to build on the culture that has been established over the last 25 years. As my own dietary choices have become more plant-based, I find Native Foods to be a great resource, beyond the ever-popular plant-based burgers. The menu's variety and creativity result in simply delicious offerings that are loved by all."

Stutz will lead the Native Foods team from the brand's headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1994, in Palm Springs, California, the chain is owned by Millstone Capital Advisors.