BRIX Holdings names new VP of operations

Dallas-based BRIX Holdings has promoted Yvette Martinez, longtime operations executive of Souper Salad, as its VP of Operations for all BRIX brands, which include Red Mango, Yogurt Cafe Smoothie & Juice Bar, Smoothie Factory Juice Bar, RedBrick Pizza Kitchen Café, Greenz and Souper Salad. 

Martinez, a Houston resident will report to President and CEO Craig Erlich and will be responsible for directing the operations of the brand's more than 200 domestic and international locations. She will also coordinate with other departments including marketing, product development, legal and construction/project management from the Dallas based headquarters, according to a company press release.

"Yvette is one of the most experienced people in restaurant operations I know, having spent 18 years in operations at Souper Salad where she worked her way up from a cashier position," Erlich said in the release. "She is an extremely talented leader and understands every facet of restaurant operations, guest experience, development, distribution and systems."

Martinez first started at Souper Salad in 1999, as a cashier and quickly worked her way up the ladder. In 2010, she was promoted to district manager over the Houston market. BRIX Holdings acquired Souper Salad in 2014, and Martinez was promoted to director of operations for Souper Salad. Soon, her responsibilities expanded to include RedBrick Pizza, which had been acquired by BRIX Holdings in 2013.

"I’ve had the fastest career growth since I became part of the BRIX family," Martinez said. "My 4-year-old daughter inspires me on a daily basis and I strive every day to be an inspiration and role model to her. I am very grateful for the opportunities, guidance and support the BRIX team has provided and I look forward to opening new locations across the country." 
Martinez’s goal is to open 25-30 new locations in 2018. 

"There is no one more deserving for this promotion," Dan Hernandez, former owner of Souper Salad and current Souper Salad franchisee, said in the release. "From day one, she was very supportive and was always there whenever or however we needed her and consistently puts the company and franchisees first. BRIX is very lucky to have her on their team."