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 a combined 190 years of 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
Dave Morrone
Vice President of Operations
Ed Kruczek
Chief Technology Officer
TJ Arrowood
Vice President of Operations, Wingstop
Mike Axiotis
President & Chief Executive Officer
Mike started as an Operations Manager at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB) over 25 years ago and earned his way to the position of our President and CEO. His journey is proof that with hard work and dedication anything is possible. As CEO, Mike has strategically diversified our business from one brand to multiple major brands, creating new revenue streams and growing LVRB to exceed $100M.
Mike contributes industry expertise by serving on the Red Robin Franchise Advisory Board and holds a certification from Georgetown University in Franchise Management and Operations.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mike is a dedicated community leader, having held influential positions on the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Board of Directors, including his most recent role as Treasurer. He has also served on the NRA Education Board of Directors, and the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) Board of Directors. Previously, he’s taken on positions with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Discover Lehigh Valley Board of Directors. Through his work in the community, Mike has helped raise millions of dollars in support of charitable causes.
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!
Dave Morrone
Vice President of Operations
Building on a strong foundation in the restaurant industry, Dave brings over 25 years of experience to his role as Vice President of Operations at Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB). Since joining the company in October 2006, he has steadily grown through the ranks, holding various leadership positions including Kitchen Manager, General Manager, Regional Operations Director, Regional Vice President, and now Vice President of Operations.
Prior to LVRB, Dave honed his skills at Smokey Bones Restaurants and even ventured into entrepreneurship, opening his own Italian restaurant in Grand Island, NY at the young age of 22. His dedication to the industry extends beyond LVRB as he currently serves on the Red Robin Operations Committee and previously supported the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association as a member of the Central PA Chapter.
Who Knew? Dave earned a bronze medal for swimming in the Junior Olympics for the 400-meter relay event.
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
Vice President of Operations, Wingstop
TJ is a seasoned restaurant industry leader with a passion for developing people and growing brands. As Vice President of Operations for the Wingstop brand 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 Team
Dave Burrington
Director of Human Resources
Mike Clifton
Director of Finance & Business Development
Michelle Conzensa
Director of Operations, Red Robin
Todd Heller
Director of Supply Chain
Megan Huffman
Director of Off-Premise & Marketing
Ghassan Moussa
Director of Operations, Red Robin
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 Conzensa
Director of Operations, 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, Regional Operations Director and her current role as Director of Operations. Michelle provides leadership and direction for all twenty Red Robin locations, while overseeing ten 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
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 and then Director of Food, Beverage, & Off Premise. Currently, Todd leverages his extensive experience as Director of Supply Chain, optimizing LVRB’s procurement and logistics.
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.
Ghassan Moussa
Director of Operations, 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, Regional Operations Director and currently serves as a Director of Operations. In this role, he oversees the operation of ten Red Robin restaurants and the world’s only Red Robin Food Truck. 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.
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!