SAN DIEGO – Tim Casey was named CEO of Rego Restaurant Group, a fast-casual restaurant portfolio that includes the Quiznos sandwich chain and Taco Del Mar. Rego is backed by private equity firm High Bluff Capital Partners.

Casey was president and CEO of PepperJax Grill and president of Qdoba Mexican Grill before joining Rego. He also served as a vice president at Starbucks.

“With significant experience transforming consumer brands, High Bluff has created an outstanding mid-market platform that’s focused on strategic acquisitions, effective integrations and enhancing franchisee economics to drive growth,” Casey said. “I am excited to join this excellent team, as the firm looks to continue the revitalization of Quiznos and Taco Del Mar, increase its brand portfolio and extend this innovative platform.”

Casey succeeds Gerry Lopez who served as CEO and chairman on behalf of High Bluff to establish two initial investments.

“As we turn to the next phase of our long-term growth strategy, we are delighted that Tim has joined to accelerate the reinvigoration of these great brands and drive further value for our franchisees through innovative offerings and dining experiences that will support and grow our franchise base,” said Anand Gowda, executive chairman of Rego Restaurant Group and managing partner of High Bluff Capital Partners. “We also continue to see considerable potential to further expand our platform through the acquisition of additional brands that will benefit from our targeted investment approach and integration strategy.”