President, Chief Executive, Blaze Pizza
Guajardo joined Blaze Pizza in January of last year after overseeing the international business at Focus Brands International, which included more than $400 million of chain sales in over 50 markets with 1,900 restaurants, 100 franchisees and eight brands (Cinnabon, Auntie Anne’s, Jamba, Seattle’s Best Coffee, Moe’s Southwest Grill, McAlister’s Deli, and Schlotzsky’s). Before being promoted to this role, Guajardo was responsible for the turnaround of the 370-unit Schlotzsky’s brand, which resulted in 30 weeks of consecutive same-store sales growth under his leadership. Prior to joining Focus Brands, Guajardo served as senior vice president of global strategy at Starbucks, leading several initiatives including Starbucks Delivery, new store development and innovation. Blaze Pizza is based in Pasadena and has more than 400 franchise locations and 12 company owned outposts.
YEARS ON LA500: 1
