Irvine-based Pokeworks have added two new members to its leadership team – Abe van Beek as director of culinary and Michele LaMont as director of marketing.
Steve Heeley, chief executive of the poke bowl restaurant chain, announced the new hires Wednesday and noted van Beek’s industry experience of 15 years and LaMont’s 14 years will “help drive Pokeworks to continued success.”
Both “have proven themselves to be talented business leaders throughout their careers, and we are fortunate to have them join our team,” Heeley said in a statement.
Van Beek has previously held executive roles in menu innovation and culinary operations for Gelson’s Markets, Greenleaf Gourmet Chop Shop and IHOP.
LaMont most recently worked for 911 Restoration as the director in sales and marketing and previously occupied similar roles at IHOP and Mayweather Boxing + Fitness.
Pokeworks ranks No. 26 on the Business Journal’s list of locally based restaurant chains and reported $47 million in sales for 2021.
