Staffing

Riko's Pizza names Carl Bachmann CEO

Carl Bachmann. Photo: Riko's Pizza

December 10, 2025

Riko's Pizza has named its president and COO, Carl Bachmann, as its CEO. Bachmann replaces long-time founder and CEO Rico Imbrogno, who is transitioning to the newly established role of executive chairman, according to a press release.

"Carl has proven himself to be an extraordinary leader who understands our values and has already made a tremendous impact," Imbrogno said in the press release. "In less than a year, he's strengthened every part of our business—from technology and operations to marketing, menu development, and real estate — while driving meaningful same-store-sales growth across the system. His deep experience, passion for hospitality, and commitment to excellence make him the ideal person to lead Riko's into its next exciting chapter. We share a vision for the future of Riko's, and I am thrilled to have him at the helm and as my partner as we forge ahead."

Before joining Riko's Pizza, Bachmann served as CEO of BurgerFi International, overseeing the BurgerFi and Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza brands, and previously as president and CEO of Smashburger, where he delivered the strongest same-store-sales growth in the national brand's history. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Bertucci's and Ruby Tuesday, including more than a decade as a successful franchisee.

"I'm honored to take on this new role and build upon the remarkable foundation that Rico and the team have established over the years," Bachmann added in the press release. "What Rico has created here is truly unique in the restaurant industry — both from a product and concept perspective. Riko's is a special brand defined by its one-of-a-kind product, culture and people, and I'm excited to continue growing our footprint while staying true to the values that make us who we are. This first year has been a rewarding journey as we've taken this incredible concept to the next level, and I look forward to building on that momentum to take Riko's to new heights in the years ahead."

Riko's Pizza currently operates five corporate-owned and seven franchise-owned locations across Connecticut, Florida, New York and North Carolina. The Company has numerous other U.S. locations in the pipeline, with a core focus on select markets throughout the East Coast.