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.
MARK KOCER, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Kocer was most recently a division vice president for Arby’s, responsible for the management and operations of over 400 franchised restaurants and almost 300 company-owned ventures across 10 states. Under his leadership, the division generated over $1 billion in sales and was the top-ranked in performance and second in volume last year. During his near 20-year career with Arby’s, Kocer served in various leadership roles including area supervisor, director of operations and senior director of operations. He eliminated redundancies, helped streamline the brand’s performance scorecard from 16 to nine initiatives, created and developed a national catering program and oversaw the implementation of several new technologies and operational processes.
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.
STEPHANIE GOODEN, VICE PRESIDENT FOR HUMAN RESOURCES
Stephanie rejoined Taco John’s in 2016 as Vice President for Human Resources after spending 1-1/2 years with the Wyoming Department of Corrections as Deputy Human Resources Manager. Prior to the State, Stephanie was with Taco John’s for 33 years, primarily in Human Resources. Her areas of expertise are staffing, compensation/benefits, employee relations and training/development. Stephanie is a member of the Society of Human Resources Management and served as President of the Chain Restaurant Total Rewards Association.
SHANNON IVERSON, VICE PRESIDENT FOR FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT
Shannon Iverson was named Vice President for Franchise 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.
RYAN BAUNE, VICE PRESIDENT FOR TECHNOLOGY
Ryan was named Vice President for Technology in January 2024. Ryan joins us with 20 years of experience leading technology teams in the restaurant industry. Before joining Taco John’s, Ryan was the Chief Technology Officer for Steele Brands. Prior to Steele Brands, Ryan held a variety of roles at Inspire Brands/Buffalo Wild Wings and International Dairy Queen. Ryan will lead the overall strategy for technology, implementation of restaurant systems, and innovation to improve the guest experience and team member productivity.
NICK DAVIS, VICE PRESIDENT FOR SUPPLY CHAIN
Nick Davis was named Vice President for Supply Chain in July 2024. Nick brings a wealth of experience in procurement, logistics, and supply chain management. His background demonstrates results in building strong, effective partnerships and favorable contract negotiations. Nick started his purchasing career as Director of Purchasing with Hilton Hotels Corporation in 1989. He transitioned to the restaurant industry in 2002 working for well-known brands such as Famous Dave’s International, Dairy Queen, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Nick also has experience in distribution, having worked as Director of Logistics for Rhinehart Foodservice. His most recent role was SVP Procurement and Supply Chain at Promise Confections where he led supply chain for Pearson Candy Company, Edward Marc Brands, Annabelle’s Candy Company, and Seattle Gourmet Foods. Nick will lead and oversee the supply chain strategy for Taco John’s and will help further the Brand’s success with his leadership and expertise.