HEATHER NEARY
PRESIDENT & CEO
Joining Taco John’s in February 2024, Heather Neary brings more than two decades of relevant restaurant, brand, and franchise leadership experience to her new role as President and CEO. Most recently she served as the Brand President at KBP Brands, a large QSR Franchisee. She began her restaurant career with the international pretzel franchise, Auntie Anne’s, culminating in the role of Brand President. Neary is an active member of the International Franchise Association and has served on the Board of Directors for the National Restaurant Association, and the Women’s Foodservice Forum. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Essential Property Realty Trust (NYSE: EPRT), as well as on the Board of Advisors for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
RICHARD BUNDY
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Richard was named Chief Financial Officer for Taco John’s International in February 2021. Richard has more than 20 years of experience in the financial field, with most of his experience in the apparel retail industry. He was most recently the CFO for Christopher & Banks and has held a variety of leadership roles at retail brands such as Victoria’s Secret, Soma Intimates and Chico’s. Richard will lead Taco John’s financial strategy, including accounting, business analysis, and financial planning. In addition, he will oversee Supply Chain and Human Resources.
KEVIN FLAHERTY
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Kevin was named Chief Marketing Officer for Taco John’s International in October 2024, bringing 25+ years of experience to the role with a track record of strategic growth and digital innovation. He previously spent eight years at MOD Pizza, a fast-casual pizza concept based in Bellevue, WA. He supported the team managing the company’s Digital Marketing, E-Commerce, and Loyalty Programs. Kevin’s diverse career includes Marketing roles at Colgate Palmolive, Amazon, Precor and several startups. At Taco John’s, Kevin will lead the company’s Marketing Strategy.
KRISTIN NUSS
GENERAL COUNSEL & CORPORATE SECRETARY
Kristin Nuss joined Taco John’s in May 2021 as Associate General Counsel and Director of Franchise Compliance and Contracts. Kristin was promoted to General Counsel and Corporate Secretary in January 2025. Kristin’s career also includes experience as a Supervising Attorney General at the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, as well as an associate with Sundahl, Powers, Kapp & Martin. Kristin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from Chadron State College and her Juris Doctor (with Honors) from the University of Wyoming College of Law. She is a member of the ABA Forum on Franchising and holds various professional licenses and affiliations. She has also presented cases to the Wyoming Supreme Court and Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals.
SHANNON IVERSON
VICE PRESIDENT, DEVELOPMENT
Shannon Iverson was named Vice President, Development in February 2024. Early in her career, she taught kindergarten in Cusco, Peru while studying Spanish at the Amauta Academy. She then pursued graduate studies at the University of Louisville in Franchise Management and a CFE designation followed. Before joining Taco John’s, Shannon held the position of VP of Franchise Growth at Marco’s Pizza, where she led the charge in crafting and executing their strategy for existing and prospective franchisee growth, both nationally and internationally. Shannon contributes to the franchise community by serving on the IFA’s Women’s Franchise Committee and most recently, was appointed to the Northwest Ohio District Export Council (DEC) by the Secretary of Commerce.
NICK DAVIS
VICE PRESIDENT, SUPPLY CHAIN
Nick Davis was appointed Vice President, Supply Chain in July 2024. He brings extensive experience in procurement, logistics, and supply chain management, with a proven track record of building collaborative partnerships and driving win-win negotiations. Nick has held various supply chain leadership roles at renowned brands, including Hilton Hotels, Nordstrom, Famous Dave’s, International Dairy Queen, Reinhart Foodservice and Buffalo Wild Wings. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Procurement and Supply Chain at Promise Confections, overseeing portfolio supply chain operations for Pearson’s Candy Company, Edward Marc Brands, Annabelle’s Candy Company, and Seattle Gourmet Foods. In his new role, Nick will lead Taco John’s supply chain strategy, leveraging his expertise to drive the brand’s continued success.
TOM PERELLA
VICE PRESIDENT, TECHNOLOGY
Tom Perella joined Taco John’s in March 2025 and brings more than 20 years of experience in retail technology. Tom started his career in restaurants as a crew member, so he understands and appreciates the integral role that technology plays in operations. Tom spent many years at Focus Brands (now GoTo Foods) implementing various POS systems for brands like Cinnabon, Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, and Jamba, while also overseeing Help Desks, integrating digital technologies into restaurants, and continuing to innovate with all stakeholders. Most recently, he was with Duck Donuts as the VP/Technology where he oversaw all the technology needs for the organization, to include extensive digital integrations.
DAMIAN HANFT
VICE PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES
Damian Hanft joined Taco John’s in April 2025 as Vice President, Human Resources. Damian was most recently with Inspire Brands, where he was head of talent and played a key role in the architecture of the team member experience. He has held leadership positions in talent management, learning and development, human resources, labor relations, and training. Damian currently serves on the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation and as an advisory board member for the Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance (MFHA). He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin. Damian is a dedicated supporter of Share Our Strength and has participated in five 200-mile Chefs Cycle rides.