In 1984, Josefina Howard introduced authentic Mexican cuisine to New York City when she opened the first Rosa Mexicano at the intersection of 58th Street and First Avenue in Manhattan. Since then the concept has grown to now include locations in New York, Washington DC, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Miami. Following the acquisition of Rosa Mexicano by TriSpan Rising Stars LP on March 28, 2018, and the subsequent hiring of three key leadership roles, the team assembled to oversee the chain’s growth is now complete.

Steve Weissman is the Chief Financial Officer. A graduate of Syracuse University, Weissman entered the restaurant business in late 1999 following a successful career in the commercial real estate industry. Having previously served as CFO at Fireman Hospitality Group, B.R. Guest Restaurants and Apple-Metro, Inc., he has proven to be a strong operations-based CFO that is experienced in contract negotiations and cost control efforts.

Ellie Skinner has joined as Director of Training and Development. Skinner is responsible for the development of all Team Members within Rosa Mexicano.  She began her career in Operations and most recently has been a Regional Director for McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks.  Her commitment to leading with empathy earned her General Manager of the Year in 2016.

Stephan Hengst has joined as Director of Marketing. Hengst, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA), returned to the college after graduation to lead their marketing, communications and content development outreach for 12 years. Prior to the CIA he led the marketing and communications efforts for brands that include Whole Foods Market and Stonyfield Farm.

“We are excited to add these talented individuals to the team in order to focus on the continued success of the existing base of restaurants while we begin exploring opportunities to re-start the growth of our brand,” says Chris Westcott, president and Chief Executive Officer.

Earlier this year, Rosa Mexicano was acquired by TriSpan Rising Stars LP. Jessica Kates, partner with TriSpan said “With these additions, Rosa is prepared to take the next steps forward in its long and successful journey. TriSpan is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with this team.”