Staffing

Via 313 Pizzeria promotes Kiplan Welsch to president

Photo: Via 313

September 17, 2024

Austin-based Via 313 Pizzeria has appointed Kiplan Welsch as president. Welsh has served as the brand's vice president of operations since 2023, according to a press release.

Welsch has decades of restaurant experience, holding roles at Chili's, PF Chang's, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse and Bluestone Hospitality.

The brand said he has been instrumental in Via 313's growth strategy and leadership development as it entered its fifth major metro and reached a milestone 131,000 members on its loyalty and rewards app.

"I am honored for the opportunity to lead Via 313 as its president and am eager to maintain the incredible momentum we have built as a brand," Welsch said in the press release. "My ultimate goal is to protect the culture and the integrity of the brand that (founders) Brandon and Zane have built, as well as keep the brand moving forward with innovation, technology, and hospitality."

In 2020, Via 313 partnered with Savory Fund, a private equity firm that invests in emerging concepts.

"We've watched Kip lead Via 313 with undeniable strength and care," Andrew K. Smith, managing director of Savory Fund, said in the press release. "Via 313 is leading the Detroit-style pizza casual dining revolution, and Kip is the right leader at the right time. We're thrilled to work alongside him while we expand Via 313 into more markets across the country."

Co-founder Zane Hunt said the brand trusts and respects Welsch and his leadership of the brand.

"Not only does he understand restaurant operations, but he understands the heart of Via 313 and what makes our culture unique," Hunt said in the press release. "My brother and I are grateful to have his high caliber of experience and character at the helm."