Cheryl Merchant was named president of the Taco Family of Companies in North America. She will officially join the company on January 1, 2019. Merchant has spent the last 19 years as the president and CEO of Hope Global Industries in Cumberland, Rhode Island.

“Cheryl’s addition to our senior leadership team will ensure Taco’s continued success as a high-performing, customer focused company,” said John Hazen White Jr., CEO and owner of Taco. “Cheryl’s track record at Hope Global speaks for itself and we are fortunate to have her join the Taco family.”

Luca Bolcati, currently vice president of Taco International, will be named president of Taco International, effective January 1, 2019.