Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria as well as Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, has announced the appointment of Alfred Naddaff as its national franchise development director.
“As a internationally acclaimed group of Italian restaurants, we strive to hire dynamic, high-caliber executives to drive our company’s success,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO of Russo’s. “Alfred is this kind of leader. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our growing talent pool. I’m confident he’ll serve as a tremendous asset in helping us recruit and identify excellent franchisees for future Russo’s locations.”
In his new role as director of national franchise development, Naddaff will work closely with prospective and existing franchisees to explore single and multi-unit ownership, discover potential sites for Russo’s restaurants and manage Russo’s franchising initiatives in the United States. Russo’s recent franchise growth includes expansion into Hawaii, Austin, Oklahoma and the Southeast – there are currently 34 restaurants open with more than 60 in development as well as several in the Middle East.
Prior to joining Russo’s, Naddaff was the franchise director for Boston Market Restaurants and one of the founding partners of Einstein Brothers Bagels. He has also worked in franchise development for Dunkin Donuts and has served as an independent franchise consultant to companies in the beauty and restaurant industry. With this wealth of experience, combined with an entrepreneurial family background, Naddaff brings more than 30 years of experience to the Russo’s team.
“I’m thrilled to have found a place in such an outstanding company,” said Naddaff. “I’m honored to work alongside Anthony – he’s very passionate and authentic with his approach. This is a unique company where everyone believes in the products, and I’m excited to get more people involved in franchising with our opportunities.”
Naddaff has recently relocated to Houston from Boston, and is a graduate of Kenyon College in Ohio.
Presenting a true New York-style pizza tradition, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen live by a family promise that dates back more than half a century, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.” This motto has served Russo’s Restaurants well since founder Anthony Russo opened his first pizzeria more than two decades ago. The brand’s success has inspired the launch a number of successful franchises, and today more than 30 Russo’s restaurants are operating and dozens more are currently in development both in the United States and overseas. The concept has gained recognition for its remarkably fresh food and the affordable price of menu options. Preparation of pure ingredients and the execution of memorable Italian food keep customers coming back for more. The simplicity of the Russo’s concept combines proven recipes and systems that continue to be refined to perfection. Chef Anthony’s commitment to maintaining the freshest products insures that all customers who walk through the door, irrespective of which Russo’s location, receive the bona fide Russo’s experience.
For more information about Russo’s Restaurants visit www.nypizzeria.com. To learn about available franchise opportunities call Alfred Naddaff directly at (713) 821-1321.
