Shell Shack announced that it has appointed a new CEO, Monte Batson. Batson most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer at Shell Shack. His former experience includes C-level positions at Zalat Pizza and On the Border, and he was a Regional Vice President with Outback Steakhouse.

Shell Shack founder and former CEO Dallas Hale will transition into a new role as the Chairman of the Board, where he will step back from day-to-day operations but remain involved in the growth and direction of the company.

Late last year, Shell Shack was acquired by TriSpan’s dedicated restaurant platform, Rising Stars. This strategic partnership will expedite Shell Shack’s expansion across Texas and into other markets, with a goal of opening five new stores per year. The company’s identity and dedication to great food and service won’t change, but TriSpan will offer valuable support and resources to fuel the expansion.

“Shell Shack is one of the most exciting restaurants in the country right now, and I’m honored to be its CEO,” says Batson. “We’re poised for significant growth, and with Dallas Hale’s continued vision and mentorship, and the backing of TriSpan, we’re better positioned than ever to bring our concept to new markets.”

“Since day one I’ve lived and breathed Shell Shack, and that won’t change,” says Hale. “I’m eager for a new challenge and look forward to my board position, where I can oversee the big picture while leaving operations in Monte’s very capable hands.”

TriSpan Partners, Anthony Freijy and Pericles Mazarakis, said “we believe the combination of Dallas’s company knowledge and sector expertise, as Chairman of the Board, and Monte’s multi-unit operational experience, as CEO, has the Company well positioned for its next chapter of growth.”