Luna Grill names Stephanie Atencio chief people officer

Luna Grill on November 2 named Stephanie Atencio as chief people officer, tapping a veteran people leader as the fast-casual Mediterranean chain continues to grow across California, Texas and Arizona. Atencio succeeds retired executive Vickie Motte and will report to CEO Rich Pinnella.

Why it matters: - Luna Grill is adding a senior human resources leader as the restaurant group scales to 65 locations across California, Texas and Arizona. - The hire is aimed at strengthening recruiting, leadership development and company culture during growth.

What happened: - Luna Grill announced Stephanie Atencio as its new chief people officer on November 2, 2026. - Atencio will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Rich Pinnella. - Atencio succeeds Vickie Motte, who has retired after four years with Luna Grill. - Luna Grill is a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant group.

The details: - Atencio brings more than 25 years of experience in people and talent leadership. - Her background includes roles at BJ’s Restaurants & Brewhouse, Gap Inc.’s Old Navy and Target. - At BJ’s, Atencio rose from human resources director to vice president of human resources and talent development and acquisition. - In that role, Atencio supported more than 220 restaurants and 23,000 team members. - At Old Navy, Atencio led global learning and development across North America, China and Japan. - At Target, Atencio spent 16 years in human resources and operations. - At Target, Atencio led regions with more than $1.2 billion in annual sales. - Luna Grill was founded in 2004 in San Diego by Sean and Maria Pourteymour. - Luna Grill operates in Southern California, the Dallas-Fort Worth area and Arizona. - The menu includes flame-grilled kabobs, wraps, bowls and salads. - Luna Grill says its food uses antibiotic- and hormone-free proteins, fresh produce and scratch-made family recipes. - The company emphasizes sustainability, ethical sourcing and community engagement.

Between the lines: - The hire signals that Luna Grill is prioritizing leadership infrastructure as it expands. - Pinnella framed people strategy as central to guest experience, retention and growth. - Atencio’s background in multi-brand, multi-region and high-volume retail and restaurant operations fits a company managing a broader footprint.

What's next: - Atencio is expected to focus on team development, talent attraction and culture as Luna Grill continues expanding. - Luna Grill directs customers to more information and its social channels for updates.