Christian Gurria Appointed as Alsea’s New CEO; to Lead Chipotle’s Entry into Mexico

Web Editor

July 1, 2025

a group of people standing outside of a restaurant window with a sign on it that says chipotte mexic

Background on Christian Gurria Dubernard

Christian Gurria Dubernard, an experienced executive in the food and beverage industry, has been appointed as the new CEO of Alsea, a leading operator of coffee shops and quick-service restaurants. His career spans over three decades, with notable roles in various segments of the company.

  • Started as a Domino’s Pizza store operator in 1991 and eventually became the regional director for the brand.
  • Held leadership positions across all segments of Alsea, including the role of Director of Casual Dining Mexico.
  • Spearheaded the development of Starbucks in Mexico, opening the first store in 2002 and later leading the brand in the country.
  • Implemented the operational model for Starbucks in France-Benelux.

New CEO’s Key Responsibilities

As the new CEO, Gurría Dubernard will focus on expanding and transforming Alsea’s portfolio digitally, enhancing operational excellence, maximizing asset returns, and making the company more agile and efficient.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Expansion in Mexico

One of Gurría Dubernard’s primary tasks will be to lead the expansion of Chipotle Mexican Grill in Mexico, as announced by Armando Torrado Martínez, the outgoing CEO who will now serve as President of Alsea’s Board of Directors.

  • The gradual entry of the American fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain into Mexico will start with opening five restaurants in the northern part of the country in 2026.
  • Chipotle aims to replicate its success in other markets, like Starbucks and Domino’s Pizza, by offering a menu based on fresh and healthy ingredients.

Divestment of Non-Strategic Brands

In addition to leading Chipotle’s entry, Gurría Dubernard will also negotiate the divestment of brands that are currently part of Alsea’s portfolio but do not align with the company’s new growth strategy.

  • Alsea operates several well-known brands, including Starbucks, Domino’s Pizza, Burger King, Italianni’s, Chili’s, P.F. Chang’s, Vips, Foster’s Hollywood, Gino’s, TGI Fridays, and The Cheesecake Factory.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Christian Gurria Dubernard? An experienced executive in the food and beverage industry with a 30-year career, including roles at Domino’s Pizza, Starbucks, and various segments of Alsea.
  • What are Gurría Dubernard’s main responsibilities as CEO? To expand and transform Alsea’s portfolio digitally, enhance operational excellence, maximize asset returns, and make the company more agile and efficient.
  • What is Chipotle Mexican Grill’s entry strategy in Mexico? A gradual expansion starting with five restaurants in northern Mexico in 2026, focusing on fresh and healthy ingredients.
  • Which brands might be divested from Alsea’s portfolio? Brands that do not align with the company’s new growth strategy, including Starbucks, Domino’s Pizza, Burger King, Italianni’s, Chili’s, P.F. Chang’s, Vips, Foster’s Hollywood, Gino’s, TGI Fridays, and The Cheesecake Factory.