Not Your Typical Corporate Crowd
Success grows from within at LVRB. Nearly 80% of our leadership team rose through the ranks, starting in manager or hourly roles. With over 200 years of combined experience, they understand the realities of our industry firsthand. This deep understanding fuels their commitment to creating a positive, inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive.
Senior Leadership Team
Mike Axiotis
President & Chief Executive Officer
Nikki Bloom
Chief Financial Officer
Jodie Stetz
Chief People & Culture Officer
Ed Kruczek
Chief Technology Officer
TJ Arrowood
Executive Vice President of Operations
Mike Axiotis
President & Chief Executive Officer
Mike has spent more than 30 years in the restaurant industry and has built his career through hands-on operations and multi-unit leadership roles, grounded in a people-first leadership philosophy, an unwavering focus on the guest experience, and a disciplined approach to operational execution.
Since becoming CEO in 2018, Mike has led LVRB’s evolution into a scaled, performance-driven platform designed for sustainable growth. Under his leadership, the company has strengthened its operating cadence, leadership development systems, and support infrastructure to drive consistency across brands and geographies. Mike also led the company’s expansion of its Red Robin business into Texas and accelerated Wingstop development – opening 19 Wingstop restaurants within three years. He is known for building strong teams, establishing clear accountability, and creating a culture that celebrates performance, learning, and recognition.
Mike’s leadership extends beyond LVRB through active service across the restaurant industry. He currently serves as Chair of the National Restaurant Association Board of Directors and on the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) Board, the Red Robin Franchise Advisory Board, and the Wingstop Franchise Advisory Council. Across these roles, Mike brings an operator’s perspective to brand stewardship, franchisee collaboration, advocacy priorities, and long-term growth strategy. He is always focused on helping restaurant teams thrive and building a healthy, sustainable industry.
Mike is a Certified Franchise Executive and ServSafe-certified operator who has completed franchise management and operations studies at Georgetown University. He believes the best leaders stay close to the work, invest in people, and build systems that help teams deliver great hospitality – every shift, every day.
Who Knew? Mike opened his own restaurant at the young age of 18!
Nikki Bloom
Chief Financial Officer
A seasoned financial professional with over 20 years of experience, Nikki has been a valuable asset to Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) since joining in 2004. Starting as an Administrative Assistant, she has steadily grown within the Accounting Department, culminating in a promotion to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and a key member of the Senior Leadership Team. She leverages strong financial expertise and leadership skills to guide the company’s financial health.
In addition to core financial responsibilities, Nikki maintains a Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants membership, holds a Notary Public designation, and has earned an Executive Leadership Certificate, demonstrating a commitment to professional development.
Who Knew? Though fascinated by hot air balloons, Nikki’s one experience ended with being rescued from a tree – making her a firm admirer from the ground from now on!
Jodie Stetz
Chief People & Culture Officer
Jodie has been shaping Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brand’s (LVRB) culture since 2002. Throughout her career, she has worn many hats within the Human Resources department, steadily progressing through roles such as HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Manager, and Learning & Development Manager. Her dedication to talent development was recognized with a promotion to Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition & Development, followed by leadership roles as Senior Director of Human Resources and Vice President of Human Resources. In her current role as Chief People and Culture Officer, Jodie oversees all aspects of LVRB’s HR strategy, fostering a positive and engaging work environment for the entire team.
Jodie is a highly respected leader within the industry, having been recognized as a Top 20 Woman in Food and a Woman of Influence. Her commitment to excellence has also garnered awards such as the Stephen J Hanzlik Memorial Award, as well as HR Excellence Awards in Team Member Engagement, Diversity, Team Member Communication, and Workplace Safety. Actively involved in the community, Jodie serves as Board Chair for Discover Lehigh Valley and sits on the Board of Directors for the Red Robin Giving Fund.
Who Knew? Jodie is a thrill seeker! She’s been bungee jumping, ziplining, cliff diving, parasailing, swimming with sharks – and skydiving is next on her list!
Ed Kruczek
Chief Technology Officer
Ed brings over 20 years of tech experience to his role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB). Since joining the company in 2014, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to leveraging technology to drive business success. Starting as Senior IT Director, Ed’s dedication and focus on innovation led to promotions to VP of IT and ultimately, CTO.
Prior to joining LVRB and building a successful career here, Ed gained valuable experience across diverse tech industries. His early years included roles at Reeb Millwork, Rodale Press, Walt Disney, and Hewlett-Packard. Beyond his core responsibilities, Ed is actively engaged with the local business community. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Southern Lehigh Chamber of Commerce.
Who Knew? Ed loves adventure! A particularly memorable experience was a hike to the active lava flow on Kilauea volcano in Hawaii.
TJ Arrowood
Executive Vice President of Operations
TJ is a seasoned restaurant industry leader with a passion for developing people and growing brands. As Executive Vice President of Operations at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB), TJ oversees a team of multi-unit leaders in Eastern and Central Pennsylvania. TJ’s journey began in 2013 with the company’s Red Robin brand. Starting as a Kitchen Manager, he steadily climbed the ranks to General Manager and Regional Operations Director, demonstrating a strong commitment to operational excellence and leadership development.
TJ believes in the immense opportunity the restaurant industry offers, where hard work, dedication, and on-the-job training can pave the way for a rewarding career path. Beyond his leadership role, TJ actively serves on the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) Central Chapter Board and also sits on the PRLA Statewide Board of Directors. TJ also serves on the LVRB Diversity & Inclusion Council.
Who Knew? When TJ’s not traveling to tropical locations with his partner Steven, he’s spending time with his family or working out at Orangetheory Fitness.
Leadership
Dave Burrington
Director of Human Resources
Mike Clifton
Director of Finance & Business Development
Michelle Consenza
Senior Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Todd Heller
Director of Supply Chain & Facilities Services
Megan Huffman
Director of Off-Premise & Marketing
Steve Kinder
Vice President of Operations, LVRB Texas
Devin Leeper
Sr. Regional Operations Director, Wingstop
Chip Lichtenwalner
Regional Operations Director, Wingstop
Ghassan Moussa
Senior Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Josh Palmer
Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Mike Warner
Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Kyle Wessner
Regional Operations Director, Wingstop
Craig Wildfeuer, Jr.
Director of IT
Dave Burrington
Director of Human Resources
A passionate human resource leader, Dave brings over a decade of experience to his role as Director of HR, overseeing all company brands since 2010. His career began with leadership roles in restaurant and retail operations, fostering a deep understanding of the company culture and team member needs. Dave steadily progressed through the ranks, holding positions such as Assistant General Manager, Manager of Restaurant Training, Senior Manager of Learning and Development, and HR Business Partner. His diverse background allows him to develop and implement effective HR strategies that empower team member growth and success.
Dave’s dedication is evident through achievements including the Brian McDonnell Partnership Legacy Award, Dale Carnegie Highest Award for Achievement and SHRM-SCP certification. He actively contributes to the industry as a member of the Society of Human Resource Management and as a 2024 Prosper Accelerator. Dave also serves as a member of the LVRB Diversity & Inclusion Council.
Who Knew? Dave is a devoted “dance dad” and he enthusiastically supports his daughters’ activities, while enjoying golf in his free time.
Mike Clifton
Director of Finance & Business Development
Mike brings a strong blend of financial expertise and real estate knowledge to his role as Director of Finance & Business Development at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB). Since joining the team in 2006, Mike has consistently demonstrated a commitment to strategic growth while holding numerous positions within LVRB, including Staff Accountant, Loan and Lease Specialist, and Accounting Supervisor. He spearheads new location initiatives, selecting and securing the best sites for our new restaurants.
Mike’s well-rounded skill set extends beyond site selection. His contributions were recognized with the prestigious RSO Team Member of the Quarter Award, a testament to his dedication and collaborative spirit.
Who Knew? Outside of work, Mike coaches his kids’ youth sports teams and is passionate about teaching!
Michelle Consenza
Senior Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Since joining Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) in October 2004, Michelle has held many titles including Restaurant Manager, Assistant General Manager, General Manager, Executive General Manager, and her current role as Senior Regional Operations Director. Michelle provides leadership and direction for all twenty Red Robin locations, while overseeing 5 restaurants directly. Michelle champions talent development and spearheads initiatives that drive sales growth and cost savings. She’s known for her innovative spirit, constantly testing and implementing new programs that propel LVRB’s success.
Michelle’s dedication is evident through numerous awards, including President’s Club winner (2016), RRGB ROD Franchise Top Execution Award (2020), and RRGB ROD Franchise Top NIBO Award (2021). She’s also highly involved in the community and serves on the LVRB Diversity & Inclusion Council.
Who Knew? Michelle loves Christmas so much that she starts planning in August!
Todd Heller
Director of Supply Chain & Facilities Services
Todd’s career in the restaurant industry spans various leadership positions before joining Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) in 2014. He honed his skills as a Managing Partner for On The Border Mexican Cantina and a General Manager for Cracker Barrel, demonstrating a strong understanding of restaurant operations. At LVRB, Todd quickly began making his mark, rising through the ranks from Bar Manager to General Manager and Training General Manager. His ability to lead and develop teams was recognized with promotions to Director of Off Premise, Director of Food, Beverage, & Off Premise and then Director of Supply Chain. Currently, Todd leverages his extensive experience as Director of Supply Chain & Facilities Services, optimizing LVRB’s procurement and logistics while overseeing our facilities.
Beyond LVRB, Todd is a member of the American Purchasing Society and his dedication to collaboration was acknowledged with the prestigious Brian McDonnell Partnership Legacy Award in 2022. He has also been selected as a 2024 Prosper Accelerator.
Who Knew? Todd has achieved a Second Degree Black Belt in karate!
Megan Huffman
Director of Off-Premise & Marketing
Megan’s career at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) has been one of steady advancement and increasing responsibility. Beginning as an Operational Manager in 2015, she was quickly promoted to Catering Sales Manager to help build and implement the new Red Robin Catering program. Her leadership skills continued to impress, earning her promotions to Senior Catering Sales Manager and Senior Manager of Off-Premise. She currently holds the position of Director of Off-Premise and Marketing where she oversees catering, takeout, and marketing efforts for all of our brands.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Megan is a dedicated volunteer in the community. She is actively involved with Habitat for Humanity, Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She was selected to the 2024 Class of Prosper Accelerators and has received the Dale Carnegie Sales Presentation Champion Award and the Stephen J. Hanzlik Memorial Award. Additionally, Megan serves as Chair for the LVRB Diversity & Inclusion Council.
Who Knew? Megan has lived in 7 different U.S. states and spends the majority of her free time traversing the globe.
Steve Kinder
Vice President of Operations, LVRB Texas
Steve Kinder brings a wealth of restaurant industry leadership to his role as Vice President of Operations for LVRB Texas. Joining Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) in 2025, Steve is responsible for overseeing and strategically driving the growth of operations in the critical Dallas area market.
Steve is a true industry veteran with 41 years of experience spanning all levels of operations, from manager and general manager to area director. His background is particularly significant to LVRB’s Texas expansion, as he was instrumental in bringing Red Robin Restaurants to the Dallas area starting in 2003. In addition to operations, Steve dedicated five years to Training and Development, rounding out his skills and underscoring his commitment to building strong teams.
Throughout his distinguished career, Steve has earned significant professional recognition, including GM of the Year and Support Center Member of the Year awards. He further contributed to the brand’s success by serving on the cross-functional Operations Committee with RRGB (Red Robin Gourmet Burgers).
Who Knew? Outside of work, Steve is all about family and friends. He enjoys golf, viewing it not just as a pastime but as a teacher of essential life and business lessons, such as patience, purpose-driven action, and the practice of your craft.
Devin Leeper
Sr. Regional Operations Director, Wingstop
Devin brings 18 years of food and beverage expertise to the team, beginning his career as an Operations Manager for a high-end catering company before transitioning into his first role with LVRB in 2018 as a Manager at Red Robin. He then quickly advanced through the roles of Kitchen Manager and Assistant General Manager. When Wingstop was introduced to the LVRB portfolio, Devin moved to the new brand as a General Manager to help open multiple locations, eventually rising to Executive General Manager and Regional Operations Director. Today, as Senior Regional Operations Director, he provides strategic oversight for seven locations and supports the expansion of our leadership teams.
Beyond his daily operations, Devin is highly active in company-wide initiatives. He serves as a member of the Diversity & Inclusion Council, where he advocates for bringing together diverse perspectives to build stronger teams. He is also a ServSafe proctor for the Harrisburg region and serves as Co-Chair of the LVRB Safety Committee, ensuring a safe and inclusive culture for all.
Who Knew? Devin originally went to school for Computer Robotics and Automation Maintenance, where he worked on building and programming robotic arms for factory floors!
Chip Lichtenwalner
Regional Operations Director, Wingstop
Chip joined Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands in 2017, bringing a wealth of operational experience to the team. He initially established himself on the Red Robin side of the business, beginning with his first General Manager role at the Promenade Saucon Valley location before advancing to become a Training General Manager at Quakertown. Following his success as an Executive General Manager with Red Robin, Chip transitioned to the Wingstop brand, leveraging his expertise to drive growth and operational excellence as a Regional Operations Director overseeing the Lehigh Valley market.
A committed leader within the company culture, Chip was an inaugural member of the LVRB Diversity & Inclusion Council. He continues to support initiatives that foster a welcoming, inclusive environment for all team members and guests across the organization.
Who Knew? Chip is an avid US coin collector!
Ghassan Moussa
Senior Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Ghassan’s impressive career at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) began in 2012 as an Operations Manager. He quickly demonstrated his leadership potential and was promoted to General Manager, then Executive General Manager, and currently serves as a Senior Regional Operations Director. In this role, he oversees the operation of multiple Red Robin restaurants. Before joining LVRB, Ghassan took on leadership roles in prestigious establishments worldwide, including The Abraham Lincoln Hotel and numerous hotels in Dubai, U.A.E.
Beyond his leadership roles, Ghassan’s accomplishments include receiving the Dewars Master Class Trainer certification, winning back-to-back Stephen Hanzlik GM of the Year Awards, and achieving perfect health and safety scores at multiple restaurants. He is actively involved in the industry through his commitment to the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) as VP of the Bucks County Chapter and serves as a board member on their Alcohol Service Committee. Ghassan also holds the position of Hill Runner for the National Restaurant Association (NRA) .
Who Knew? Ghassan is a proud father of two and his daughter earned her associates degree by the age of seventeen.
Josh Palmer
Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Josh Palmer’s career at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands is a testament to the growth opportunities within LVRB, having originally joined the team as a Line Cook in 2009. Today, as a Regional Operations Director, Josh oversees operations across the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, as well as the Red Robin Food Truck. His extensive journey through the organization includes holding every operations leadership role within the Red Robin brand, giving him a unique, ground-level perspective on operational performance and team development. Josh’s roots in the industry run deep, having started his restaurant career washing dishes at local “mom and pop” shops at just 14 years old.
A decorated leader, Josh has been recognized with the Restaurant of the Year award in 2018 and the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) Excellence in Food Safety Award that same year. He is a graduate of the Dale Carnegie business course and serves as an active member of the LVRB Diversity & Inclusion Council. In this role, Josh is a passionate advocate for people-first initiatives, working to ensure a culture of safety and inclusion across all business channels. His commitment to leadership and mentorship continues to drive the success of our teams throughout the region.
Who Knew? Josh is a devoted husband and father who finds his greatest fulfillment outside of work by giving back. He spends much of his free time engaged in various charitable efforts throughout his local community!
Mike Warner
Regional Operations Director, Red Robin
Since joining Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) in 2019, Mike has made a lasting impact through his focus on training, leadership development, and innovative operational strategies. With more than two decades of restaurant management experience, including 16 years with Carrabba’s and 3 years with Panera Bread, Mike brings a wealth of expertise to his current role as Regional Operations Director, overseeing five Red Robin locations directly.
Prior to his current position, Mike served as both General Manager and Executive General Manager, where his passion for people and performance consistently drove strong results. A four-time Partner of the Year at Carabba’s, Mike is known for his hands-on approach, commitment to continuous improvement, and ability to inspire teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
Mike previously chaired LVRB’s Diversity & Inclusion Council and continues to champion a culture of collaboration, growth, and innovation across all restaurants he leads.
Who Knew? Mike is a full blown “Girl Dad”!
Kyle Wessner
Regional Operations Director, Wingstop
Kyle Wessner is a long-standing leader at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands, having joined the organization in October 2006. Currently serving as the Regional Operations Director for the Wingstop North Region, Kyle oversees the daily operations of six locations, including Shillington, Reading, East Stroudsburg, Mt. Pocono, Scranton, and Edwardsville. His extensive career at LVRB began on the Red Robin side, where he built a diverse foundation serving as an Assistant Manager and Kitchen Manager at several high-volume locations before spending four successful years as the General Manager of the Exeter restaurant.
A firm believer in continuous professional growth, Kyle is a graduate of the prestigious Dale Carnegie business course, where he sharpened the leadership and communication skills he uses to mentor his teams today. His deep operational knowledge, spanning nearly two decades and multiple brands, has been instrumental in driving the growth and success of the Wingstop region. Kyle’s journey is a testament to his dedication to operational excellence and his commitment to the LVRB mission of developing strong leaders.
Who Knew? Kyle holds a BA in Music with a focus on percussion! Adding to his rhythm, he also took tap dance lessons for 12 years all the way through high school.
Craig Wildfeuer, Jr.
Director of IT
With over two decades of IT experience, including roles at Dell and HP, Craig brings a wealth of technical expertise to Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands. He began his career with our organization in 2014 as a temporary employee and quickly proved himself to be a valuable asset to our company. Currently, he serves as our Director of IT and manages the technical support team for both Red Robin and Wingstop.
Craig possesses a deep-rooted understanding of the restaurant industry and is committed to delivering exceptional support to our guests, managers, and team members. His contributions have been recognized with the RSO Superstar Award and LVRG Hospitality Award.
Who Knew? Ever since receiving a smoker as a gift, Craig has smoked almost every type of food he can get his hands on – including pizza and even crab legs!