Mexican chain Tortilla has announced a major leadership shake-up, with founder Brandon Stephens returning as group chief executive to drive the brand's growth strategy. Shares in the burrito and taco specialist rose following the news, reaching their highest level in over a year.
Stephens, who founded the business in 2007 and served as CEO until 2014, will take over from Andy Naylor with immediate effect. Naylor had been CEO for eight years. Stephens, previously a non-executive director, said he will focus on long-term strategy, brand innovation, and food development.
The company also confirmed that former Leon managing director Mac Plumpton will join as UK chief executive, while Marta Pogroszewska, former managing director of Gail's parent firm Bread Holdings, will become a non-executive director. The leadership overhaul aims to support Tortilla's next phase of development.
Tortilla, which operates 81 UK sites, said it aims to become "the leading pan-European fast-casual Mexican brand." Last week, the company reported a "positive start" to 2026 and is reviewing potential price rises due to cost increases from recent government budgets.
