Restaurant chain PF Chang’s China Bistro has appointed Eduardo Luz as its new CEO and president, effective immediately.

Luz replaces Rohit Manocha, co-founder of TriArtisan Capital Advisors – the co-owner of PF Chang’s – who has been interim CEO during the comprehensive search.

Luz most recently served as chief brand & concept officer at Panera Bread, having driven profitable sales and brand equity for the company.

Before Panera, he served in various leadership positions at The Kraft Heinz Company as well as as CEO for 8Greens, a digital wellness startup.

“Eduardo brings deep industry experience and a unique set of skills to take advantage of PF Chang’s leadership in high-quality Chinese-inspired Asian food service,” said John Paulson of Paulson & Company, the company’s lead investor.

“His expertise in marketing, consumer experience, operations and the growing fast-casual category provide us market-leading capabilities.”

Upon his appointment, Luz said he will work with the PF Chang’s team to “aggressively grow” the brand and broaden its reach.

Founded in 1993 by Philip Chiang and Paul Fleming, PF Chang’s is a multi-unit Asian culinary brand with more than 300 restaurants in 22 countries and US airport locations.