Ward Whitworth is a 35 year veteran of the restaurant industry and is currently President and CEO of On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina®, the world’s largest casual dining Mexican concept with over 157 locations in 34 States, Asia and Puerto Rico. OTB is owned by Argonne Capital Group out of Atlanta, with which Ward has been affiliated since 2011, including his prior role as President of ACG Texas, the nation’s largest IHOP franchisee.
Previously, he spent a number of years running his own restaurant company along with working for YUM Brands for over 20 years. At YUM, he spent time running large major markets for Pizza Hut, including delivery development, financial roles, and Vice President of Franchise, with responsibility for over 2,700 restaurants and $2 Billion in sales.
Throughout his career Ward has relied on strong people and communication skills to align, enable and energize teams for results. Starting as a dishwasher and student chef at the University of Connecticut, Ward learned at a young age the lessons of leadership. With a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics and many life experiences, Ward thrives on strategic expansion within the restaurant space.
He currently resides in Frisco Texas, with his wife Karin, son Christopher (a Razorback) and daughter Carly.
Under Mr. Whitworth’s leadership, he has created a culture where giving back to the community is paramount. The wonderful managers of On the Border restaurants, from Long Island to North Carolina, host a yearly golf outing and have chosen Hugs for Brady as their exclusive beneficiary of this outstanding community event. Mr. Whitworth expects his employees to give back to the community and emphasizes how important it is to him that they continue to help children battling cancer. To recognize Mr. Whitworth’s commitment and generosity, Hugs for Brady is proud to honor him with the award for the 2018 Pediatric Cancer Humanitarian of the Year.