Torchy's Tacos CEO Retires

Chief Executive Officer GJ Hart retired from Torchy's Tacos, effective November 5. Torchy’s Founder Mike Rypka has assumed the role of Interim CEO.

Hart will serve as a consultant to the business, where he served four years as CEO.

Under Hart’s leadership, Torchy’s expanded its geographic footprint of 45 restaurants to its current 96 locations in 10 states, including opening 26 locations in 2020 and 2021 during the global pandemic.

"I believe that Torchy’s will continue to have incredible success far into the future and I look forward to providing support throughout that journey," said Hart. “The global pandemic catalyzed a shift in priorities for many of us, and spending time with family now comes first in this next phase of my life and career. I plan to continue contributing to the hospitality industry, to which I’ve dedicated my career, by serving on boards and acting as a resource for leaders and entrepreneurs.”