Joanna Fantozzi

Savory Fund — a private equity firm that specializes in emerging restaurant brands — announced Monday that the company has hired two new executives: Tyler Nelson as president, and Richie Stevens as vice president of finance. The announcement comes on the heels of a period of growth for the company, including Savory Fund’s 11th portfolio investment, Houston Tx Hot Chicken, as well as a planned 70 restaurant openings for 2024.

Nelson is formerly Savory Fund’s CFO, where he has held the position for five years. Before that, Nelson also served as CFO of Four Foods Group.

“Tyler is a powerful asset,” Shauna K. Smith, CEO of Savory said in a statement. “He has been my partner in this work for many years, and he has been a vital player in Savory’s pivotal and strategic decisions. I have leaned on him for his analytical perspective, and I’m grateful to work shoulder to shoulder with such a supportive, strong leader.”

Richie Stevens, meanwhile, was previously director of finance for Savory Fund, has 13 years of experience in finance and accounting for growth companies, and has been with Savory Fund since 2020. Before that, he served as corporate financial controller for Four Foods Group.

“Richie continually demonstrates unparalleled leadership and vision,” Andrew K. Smith, managing director and co-founder of Savory Fund said in a statement. “He is an integral part of the acquisition, growth, and development of our brands, and he has been a true partner, power player, and change-maker.”

Related:Savory Fund invests in Houston TX Hot Chicken

Savory Fund’s private equity firm has $600 million in assets, and contributes to the growth and replication of all its emerging brands, which includes Swig, R&R BBQ, Pincho, Via 313 Pizzeria, Mo’ Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food, 86 Repairs, Saigon Hustle, Hash Kitchen, and The Sicilian Butcher.

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