First Watch recruits first CLO

Daytime restaurant group First Watch has recruited Jay Wolszczak as its new – and first - chief legal officer and general counsel.

In his new role, Wolszczak will lead the company’s legal interests in the areas of real estate and construction, trademark, risk management, regulatory compliance, employment law, corporate finance, transactions, M&A and other corporate functions as necessary.

According to First Watch, he most recently served as general counsel and senior vice president of business affairs for Hard Rock International in Orlando. He had worked with the company for more than 20 years, during which time it expanded from 30 to 181 cafes and from one to 25 hotels and 11 casinos.

First Watch specializes in made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch, serving its entire menu seven days a week from 7am until 2:30pm. It has more than 320 restaurants in 29 states.

‘It is imperative that as we continue to execute our aggressive growth strategy, we strengthen our foundation with experienced professionals who not only have a track record of success in the industry, but also whose values and approach to the business closely align with those of First Watch,’ First Watch president Chris Tomasso says in a statement.

‘Jay is highly regarded in our industry, and his broad and extensive experience in all facets of law and other business affairs are a welcome addition to our already strong executive team. I had the privilege to work with him for many years early in our respective careers and am excited to have him join our team,’ he adds.