Portillo's Taps Industry Veteran as New CEO

Brett Patterson, who held executive roles at Outback Steakhouse and other chains, takes over as Portillo's CEO amid sluggish sales.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Portillo's, the Chicago-based restaurant chain, has appointed Brett Patterson as its new CEO. Patterson is an industry veteran who has held executive roles at Outback Steakhouse, Ruby Tuesday, and Olive Garden.

Why it matters

Portillo's has recently scaled back expansion plans due to sluggish sales, so the appointment of an experienced industry leader as CEO signals the company's efforts to turn things around and position itself for future growth.

The details

Brett Patterson, who has over 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, will take over as Portillo's new CEO. He has held executive roles at several major chains, including Outback Steakhouse, Ruby Tuesday, and Olive Garden.

  • Portillo's announced Patterson's appointment as CEO on February 12, 2026.

The players

Brett Patterson

An industry veteran who has held executive roles at Outback Steakhouse, Ruby Tuesday, and Olive Garden, and is now the new CEO of Portillo's.

Portillo's

A Chicago-based restaurant chain that has recently scaled back expansion plans amid sluggish sales.

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The takeaway

Portillo's is turning to an experienced industry leader in Brett Patterson to help the company navigate its current challenges and position it for future growth.