Playa Bowls Appoints New Executives As Brand Nears 400 Locations

Playa Bowls has expanded its leadership team with a series of appointments and promotions across development, marketing, and digital roles as it prepares to exceed 400 shops nationwide in May.

Jayson Tipp, formerly Chief Development Officer, has been named Chief Growth Officer. In this expanded role, Tipp will oversee development, technology, and digital marketing and lead the brand's enterprise growth strategy. Patrick Turek has been appointed Chief Development Officer, succeeding Tipp. Turek will lead franchise development, real estate, design, and construction, with a focus on strategic and profitable expansion.

Turek brings more than 20 years of experience in real estate and franchise development, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Development at Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, where he led expansion in the U.S. and Canada. He has also held development and real estate leadership roles at Panera Bread.

Tim Hackbardt has been named Chief Marketing Officer and will oversee brand marketing and innovation. Hackbardt has worked with the team in recent months to develop a product innovation pipeline, focusing on menu development and bringing new offerings to market. He has more than 30 years of marketing leadership experience with multi-unit restaurant brands, including Del Taco, Inspire Brands, and BJ's Restaurants, where he led integrated marketing strategies, digital transformation, and product innovation.

Mark Foulds has been appointed Vice President of Digital Marketing. Foulds will lead digital, loyalty, and performance marketing strategies. His background includes leadership roles in digital marketing, loyalty, and global brand strategy at Inspire Brands and Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux.

Founder Abby Taylor will continue as Chief Creative Officer, guiding the brand's creative direction and remaining involved in product development, visual identity, and the in-shop experience.

Playa Bowls is growing with new franchise owners and existing operators expanding their portfolios, entering new markets, and bringing the brand to more communities across the country. The company is on track to surpass 400 shops nationwide in May.