ORLANDO, Fla., U.S. — Since it opened in 2009, 4 Rivers has grown into a must-visit icon, with 14 locations around Florida and in Atlanta. Another homegrown brand is poised to do the same, and Foxtail Coffee Co. will get a little help following in those footsteps. The local coffee brand recently hired former 4 Rivers leadership team member John Hufferd to head up operations.
Hufferd started as Foxtail’s COO in early June.
“We have long admired the success story of 4 Rivers and Huff’s work there,” said Alex Tchekmeian, Foxtail’s co-founder. “As we continue to grow, we recognize the value of a strong operational leader, and we look forward to where he is going to help take the Foxtail brand.”
Hufferd has a long history as part of the Central Florida restaurant industry. Before his 9 years at 4 Rivers, he spent nearly a decade with Hillstone Restaurant Group.
He brings an expertise in onboarding, staff development and restaurant openings to the position. A Seattle native, Hufferd sought out Foxtail for a new challenge in the coffee industry.
He looks to not only strengthen the company’s growth, but to build relationships in the community and create enriching experiences for employees. For instance, an employee volunteering day and staff development opportunities are already in the works.
“With Foxtail, it’s really all about building on the foundation that has already been set,” Hufferd said. “The brand is growing fast, and I look forward to bringing my skillset to continue that and make the company even better for our Central Florida community.”
For more information about Foxtail Coffee, visit www.foxtailcoffee.com.
