Old Chicago Restaurant Announces New Marketing Director and Vice President of Franchise Operations

Old Chicago, the 26-year-old “friendly neighborhood establishment” that specializes in imported beer and deep-dish pizza, recently announced it has hired Gretchen Miller Paules as the concept’s new marketing director and promoted Tom Lund to serve as vice president of Franchise operations.

Paules, who has more than 13 years Restaurant marketing experience working with concepts including Taco Bell, Burger King, and Arby’s, will head the Old Chicago marketing department. Her primary responsibilities include developing the national and regional marketing programs, research initiatives, and menu development.

“I believe that Gretchen Paules’ excellent track record in the restaurant marketing sector will help Old Chicago’s growing team effectively handle our tremendous growth,” said Buck Warfield, senior vice president of development for Rock Bottom Restaurants, Inc. “She will be able to position and lead Old Chicago’s marketing initiative to new heights with her creative vision for the company.”

Lund, the former vice president of operations for Old Chicago, was recently promoted to vice president of franchise operations for Old Chicago’s Franchising division. Lund has been with Rock Bottom Restaurants for more than 19 years in a variety of positions. Lund’s responsibilities include leading the charge as the franchise system expands and will be the franchise consultant for half of the current Old Chicago franchise group.

“I am excited to be working with the entire Old Chicago franchising team, since it is such a fast growing concept,” said Lund. “I am confident that my experience as a top operator for Old Chicago, combined with my relations with Rock Bottom Restaurants, will be a significant asset to the franchise system nationwide.”

About Old Chicago
Founded in 1976, Old Chicago is a part of Rock Bottom Restaurants, Inc., which currently owns and operates 87 restaurants throughout the United States - 53 "Old Chicago" restaurants and 34 brewery restaurants operating under the names "Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery," "ChopHouse & Brewery" and "Walnut Brewery." The company also owns and operates “SingSing,” a dueling piano bar concept with three locations. In addition, Rock Bottom’s franchising division supports the operation of eight Old Chicago franchise stores.