Scottsdale-based P.F. Chang's gets new CEO

Michael Osanloo has joined Wok HoldCo as CEO of Scottsdale-based P.F. Chang's.

Rick Federico will remain as full-time executive chairman of Wok HoldCo., which in addition to P.F. Chang's, owns Pei Wei and is a majority owner of True Food Kitchen.

Osanloo previously was executive vice president and president of Kraft Food Group's North American grocery business unit. He led Kraft's global strategy and mergers and acquisitions, where he was responsible for the planning, acquisition and integration of Cadbury PLC as well as business unit divestitures. He will be based in Scottsdale.

"He is a proven executive who brings comprehensive experience in business strategy, brand management, marketing and operations across numerous consumer brands and industries," Federico said in a company statement. "Michael has a great understanding of brand value and an excellent track record of delivering superior results."

Osanloo said he long has admired the P.F. Chang's brand and sees many opportunities.

P.F. Chang's has nine Arizona locations, including eight in metro Phoenix.

The CEO announcement is the second in nine months for Wok HoldCo., a restaurant holding company formed in 2012 by its majority owner, Centerbridge Partners. In August, the company announced the appointment of Ralph Bower, who previously had been president of Popeyes Lousiana Kitchen, as CEO of Pei Wei.

Reach the reporter at sue.doerfler@arizonarepublic.com.