Leadership & Pay ·
El Pollo Loco appoints Damon Thomas as COO with up to $425,000 annual base and $900,000 in equity
LOCOEl Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. appointed Damon Thomas as Chief Operating Officer effective September 21, 2026. Mr. Thomas previously served as Senior Vice President of Operations at Shake Shack Enterprises. His compensation package includes an annual base salary of $425,000 and a target cash bonus equal to 75% of his base salary. He is eligible for an annual equity award valued at approximately $400,000 starting in 2027, along with a one-time grant worth approximately $500,000 subject to vesting conditions. Additionally, he received a $25,000 sign-on bonus and severance benefits equivalent to twelve months of base salary upon qualifying termination. The company operates in the quick-service restaurant industry.