MAX’S GROUP, Inc. (MGI) appointed Ariel P. Fermin as its new president in a bid to extend its leadership in the restaurant industry.
The listed company said in a statement on Friday that Mr. Fermin replaces Robert F. Trota, who retains his position as chief executive officer despite vacating the role of president.
“Birthed and sustained through the years by the Trota, Fuentebella, and Gimenez-Rodgers families, Mr. Fermin’s promotion accelerates the company’s agenda to extend its industry leadership by balancing the continuity of its history with fresh renewal,” MGI said.
“He brings with him over three decades of leading some of the most distinguished companies across a diverse range of industries, elevating world-class brands, re-imagining businesses, and driving revolutionary transformation,” the company added.
With the change in leadership, Mr. Fermin will now be in charge of the overall commercial and operational performance of MGI and its brands such as Max’s Restaurant, Pancake House, Yellow Cab Pizza Co., Krispy Kreme, Jamba Juice, Dencio’s, Teriyaki Boy, and Sizzlin’ Steak.
Mr. Fermin will also be responsible for finding external and internal opportunities for expansion, customers, markets, new industry developments, and standards, while also implementing corporate policies, programs, processes, and guidelines in accordance with MGI’s vision.
“I firmly believe that our local brands and industries have what it takes to shine on the global stage. I am excited by the opportunity to assume greater stewardship of MGI through its newest chapter using my experience and perspective to help the group navigate its most dramatic evolution yet, all the while continuing to work closely under the guidance, culture, and values of our founding families,” Mr. Fermin said.
Before his appointment, Mr. Fermin was the group’s chief operating officer.
Meanwhile, Mr. Trota said MGI remained resilient and flexible despite the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the global food industry.
“Through it all, none of this would have been possible without the leadership of Mr. Fermin who has helped us accelerate three years of strategy into three quarters of execution throughout the pandemic, helping us define new sources of wealth, streamline our operations, and build newfound agility into our organization,” Mr. Trota said.
On Friday, shares of MGI at the stock exchange were flat at P7.20 apiece. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
