Fiesta Restaurant Group Announces Appointment of New Chief Information Officer

Ryan Nowlin formerly served as vice president of information technology

Fiesta Restaurant Group FRGI, the parent company of the Taco Cabana and Pollo Tropical brands, has promoted Ryan Nowlin to the newly created position of chief information officer, effective December 19.

Nowlin, who was vice president of information technology since September 2012, will be responsible for all IT information systems and programs in alignment with the company's goals.

"Ryan Nowlin has been instrumental in the successful development and execution of a number of programs, including new digital menu platforms and off-site consumption strategies, and, more notably, with helping transform the Taco Cabana and Pollo Tropical brands," said Richard Stockinger, president and CEO of Fiesta Restaurant Group. "By creating this new position of chief information officer, we will ensure that technology continues to be an integral part of our overall strategy for brand renewal and growth as we head into 2018."

In his former position as vice president of information technology, Nowlin developed and executed a multi-year technology plan that resulted in a cost-effective and secure infrastructure while leading brand initiatives to build customer engagement, drive sales/transaction growth and support expansion of 40 new restaurants per year. He also partnered with Marketing to create an integrated digital strategy that resulted in dynamic new websites, an integrated customer marketing database (CRM) with 650K active opt-in email/SMS subscribers, a social media presence and brand loyalty programs.

Nowlin graduated with a bachelor's degree in information technology from the University of Phoenix in 2004 and a MBA from Southern Methodist University in 2006.

About Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc.

Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., owns, operates and franchises Pollo Tropical and Taco Cabana^® restaurant brands. The brands specialize in the operation of fast casual/quick service, ethnic restaurants that offer distinct and unique flavors with broad appeal at a compelling value. The brands feature fresh-made cooking, drive-thru service and catering. For more information about Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., visit the corporate website at www.frgi.com

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