Marchioli to Head El Pollo Loco

Longtime restaurant industry executive Nelson J. Marchioli has been appointed president of the El Pollo Loco chain of Mexican-style grilled chicken restaurants and vice president of the chain’s owner, Flagstar Cos. Inc.

Marchioli, 47, formerly was president of the Bruegger’s Bagel Bakeries chain, senior vice president of worldwide supply management for Burger King Corp. and an executive of the former General Mills Restaurant Group and its Red Lobster seafood restaurant chain.

At El Pollo Loco, Marchioli will be responsible for operations and growth of the 247-unit chain, which has outlets in California, Nevada, Arizona, Texas, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines.

El Pollo Loco recently announced plans to add 65 new restaurants in California and Arizona over the next six years.

Marchioli replaces John A. Romandetti, who was appointed president of South Carolina-based Flagstar’s Denny’s restaurant chain subsidiary in December.