Wilmington-based franchise Clean Eatz announced Tuesday it’s appointed the company’s first CEO.

Eric Wyatt, a 30-year restaurant and retail industry leader, has been selected for the role. According to a news release, Wyatt most recently served as CEO of California-based NORMS Restaurants.

Wyatt has also held C-level leadership roles at Boston Market and Corner Bakery Cafe and senior positions at Hardee’s Restaurants, Panera Bread and Starbucks. In those roles, he “consistently demonstrated his ability to mentor and support team members, improve operational efficiency and lead successful market expansions,” according to the release.

At Clean Eatz, Wyatt will focus on expanding the brand's footprint across the U.S. through strategic innovation, operational excellence and franchise growth, according to the release. His own journey to healthier living, prompted by a recent full knee replacement, also resonates with the company's values and mission, the release stated.

Founded in 2011 by Don and Evonne Varady, Clean Eatz offers customers whole foods and balanced portions at its dine-in cafes or through its grab ‘n’ go meals or weekly meal plan options. The company also offers shipments of frozen meals and healthy snacks, operating two production facilities for Clean Eatz Kitchen, the direct-to-consumer side of the business.

Clean Eatz started as a small cafe on Racine Drive and began franchising its operations in 2015. The company currently has more than 115 franchise locations in 24 states, according to its website.

In Tuesday’s announcement, Clean Eatz Cofounder Evonne Varady highlighted why Wyatt was chosen as the company’s new leader.  
 
“Eric’s journey brings our founding mission to life: living a healthier life by making healthier choices. In combination with his extensive industry experience, it makes him an excellent choice to grow our brand,” Varady stated in the release. “His ability to translate his personal commitment to wellness into leadership and innovation is exactly what we need as we entrust him to lead our brand through this dynamic time.”

During his first 90 days, Wyatt plans to prioritize building relationships with franchisees along with the company’s support center team and Clean Eatz Kitchen distribution centers.

“Serving as the first CEO of Clean Eatz is a unique opportunity to leverage my restaurant experience and empower others to embrace healthier lifestyles,” Wyatt stated in the release. “The synergy between Clean Eatz’s mission and my background will help elevate the brand and drive innovation, strengthening our commitment to bringing healthy eating from coast to coast.”