Bernard Acoca is the newly sworn-in Chief Executive Officer of Zaxby’s, a company that specializes in chicken fingers. Acoca will now serve as the CEO of Zaxby’s, a position that was vacated when former CEO Tom Dent retires. Bernard Acoca is credited for his work with the company during his time as president and chief operating officer. He now oversees operations as well as managing relationships with key business partners and vendors such as WestRock, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola Company, and Tyson Foods.
- Career Background
His career began at Deloitte & Touche. It was there that he first met Phil Thompson, who ultimately introduced him to Zaxby’s. Acoca became the CEO in June 2015, after taking over for Dent. He reportedly benefited from a running start before Dent retired earlier than expected. Acoca has served as the president and chief operating officer of Zaxby’s since July 2013. He is credited with seeing the company through some of its most trying times including a public relations fiasco and an e coli scare that hit distribution centers in Georgia and Alabama.
- Business Strategy
Acoca has said that the company’s dual focus on fast food and shopping is an effective strategy. As the new Zaxby’s CEO, Bernard Acoca will have to continue to ensure that the company continues to develop restaurant locations that highlight the convenience as well as the quality of its food. He has said he wants to be a part of a company that will maintain its high standards for chicken fingers, fast food, and shopping. The company’s success is directly related to customer satisfaction.
- Other Major Insights
Acoca also serves as a member or speaker for various organizations and boards. He helped found the Georgia Restaurant Association, the National Association of Drilling Engineers, and the Southeast Restaurant Association. He currently serves on the board of directors at Ohio Hospital Foundation through various affiliations including University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Foundation.
Acoca is credited with bringing in new food offerings to the company including Dragon Sushi and Zaxby”s Snappy Chicken. The company has maintained an impressive track record of positive financial results since his time as president and chief operating officer. Refer to this article to learn more.
More about Acoca on https://www.ajc.com/news/business/zaxbys-ceo-who-sold-drum-set-to-start-georgia-chain-drops-back/USB4LAUULFFONEGEJ4XRDQRHEE/