Afrand Nikoukar

Afrand Nikoukar possesses extensive experience in culinary innovation and product development within the food industry. Currently holding a position in Culinary Innovation - New Ventures at Chipotle Mexican Grill since July 2022, Afrand previously served as the Senior Research Development Manager at El Pollo Loco, Inc., focusing on food and product innovation. Prior roles include Culinary Director at TLT Food, overseeing menu direction and culinary operations, and Kitchen Manager at THE STAND, LLC, where responsibilities encompassed creative menu development and staff training. Afrand further honed culinary skills as Chef De Partie at Ad Hoc and as a Cook at The Lime Truck. Education was completed at The Culinary Institute of America between 2011 and 2013.