LAKE FOREST, CALIF. — Chad Gretzema has been named to the newly created role of chief operating officer at Del Taco Restaurants, Inc.

Mr. Gretzema has been with Del Taco since 2012. Most recently, he was senior vice-president of strategic planning and innovation. Before that, he was senior vice-president of operations, support and engagement. He also has held a variety of operations and marketing positions at restaurants, including Einstein Noah Restaurant Group and Noodles & Company.

“Chad has been a key architect of many of our strategic combined solutions operational improvement efforts and is a trusted partner within the organization who knows how to help teams deliver superior results,” said John D. Cappasola, Jr., president and chief executive officer at Del Taco. “He has also been a passionate voice, ensuring strong cross-functional franchise support and enabling our franchise partners to successfully grow their businesses.”

Del Taco is the third largest Mexican-American Q.S.R. in the United States, serving more than three million guests each week at more than 580 restaurants.