Fuzzy's Taco Shop makes leadership changes; names new COO
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop has made a promotion and an in-house addition to its leadership team as it eyes expansion.
The fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain has announced that Patrick Kirk, previously chief marketing officer, has been named president and chief marketing officer. Marshall Claycamp, previously executive director of operations services for IHOP, has been named chief operations officer for Fuzzy’s.
In new and expanded roles, Fuzzy’s said that Kirk will continue to “define the chain’s experience, guide the brand’s future growth and manage all organizational aspects.” Claycamp will lead all operations and franchise restaurant operations for Fuzzy’s.
[READ MORE: Taco chain to grow in Arizona, Texas]
Kirk joined Fuzzy’s earlier this year from Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar, where he served as president of bar and beverage. In his previous role, which he held since 2016, Kirk led the strategy for Applebee’s bar and beverage experience across restaurants nationwide, growing his marketing department into a substantial revenue driver for the chain.
Both IHOP and Applebee's are part of the Dine Brands Global, Inc. family of restaurants. Fuzzy’s was acquired by Dine Brands Global in 2022.
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Patrick Kirk (Image courtesy of Fuzzy's) -
Marshall Claycamp (Image courtesy of Fuzzy's)
“Patrick is no stranger to the business,” said John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands. “Since joining the Fuzzy’s team as chief marketing officer, he has made an immediate impact. His knack for building strategic plans and forming strong brand and franchisee partnerships, all while focusing on creating engaging and fun guest experiences, is undeniable. I’m excited about the fresh expertise and creative thinking he will bring to our talented team.”
Claycamp joins Fuzzy’s from IHOP where he served as the executive director of operations services for the past five years. His career spans multiple roles, including franchise business consultant at IHOP, learning and development at Applebee’s, and years of restaurant operations.
“Marshall’s ability to adapt, learn, grow, and hone his leadership skills has prepared him well to assume this new role as Fuzzy’s chief operations officer,” Peyton said. “Marshall has a passion for restaurant operations, a commitment to our culture, and most importantly, a love for our teams. He is perfectly suited to lead our operations as we continue to grow our national footprint.”
Fort Worth, Texas-based Fuzzy’s Taco Shop operates nearly 130 locations in 17 states.
