Now a VP, Perez Joined the Salad Franchise in 2017
Salata Salad Kitchen, which specializes in customized salads, promoted Tiffany Perez to vice president of franchise development. Perez, previously Salata’s senior director of training and development, now spearheads the revitalization of the brand’s operations manual, franchisee onboarding improvements, and strategic restaurant renewals and refreshes. Salata also recently named Sammy Seymour to its leadership team; he’s vice president of operations.
Perez has set a goal of expanding the brand’s presence and awareness nationwide. “We’re set to surpass the 100-location milestone, a testament to the incredible dedication of our team. I’m eager to welcome new franchisees into our family.”
Salata’s culture of warmth and hospitality enveloped Perez from the moment she began working as a lead trainer in 2017. “I was impressed by the team’s meticulous care in handling our products and touched by the long-standing relationships, including those with team members who had been with our founder since the brand’s early days.” Despite Salata’s growth, Perez said its core culture – prioritizing its people – remains intact. Salata has a collective mindset that’s able to evolve as needed, and “we’ve realized our capability to overcome any challenge. … Our unity makes us stronger.”
President Michele Maerz said Perez and Seymour have both been instrumental in Salata’s growth. “Their promotions to VP roles are well-deserved on every level. As we look ahead to celebrating an incredible milestone for our brand, reaching 100 restaurants open across the country, these new positions will aid in our continued expansion,” Maerz said.
A Career at Restaurant Franchises
Perez began her career working for a Panera Bread franchisee who managed several locations in the Houston area. During that time, she helped open new restaurants as a team member trainer. “What I find most compelling about the franchise restaurant industry is the independence and career potential it offers to individuals. The established business structure provides a solid foundation, allowing us to support franchisees in turning their aspirations into reality and achieving their professional goals,” said Perez, who has also worked at Potbelly Sandwich Works.
As might be expected of the mother of four boys, Perez – like Salata – wants foods to be nutritious as well as tasty. She said Salata’s focus on a healthful menu creates “an extra layer of excitement, as it allows us to educate both children and adults about the vital role of fruits and vegetables in their well-being. … When we redesigned our kids’ meal program, we invited team members’ children to our home office for feedback, ensuring the program truly met their needs and preferences.”
About Salata Salad Kitchen
Salata Salad Kitchen is a fast-casual brand founded by Berge Simonian in Houston in 2005. Franchising began in 2006. Its menu features 50-plus fresh toppings and house-made dressings. Salata has expanded to more than 90 locations in Texas, Georgia, Southern California, Louisiana and North Carolina.
