Meet the Team
Behind every great brand is a great team. At PONKO Chicken, we have assembled a team of passionate professionals with years of experience in the restaurant and franchise industries. From our culinary experts to our operations and marketing specialists, the PONKO Chicken team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
When you franchise with PONKO Chicken, you’re not just getting a business; you’re gaining a partner who is committed to your success. We provide comprehensive training, ongoing support, and a proven business model designed to help you thrive.
Dr. Patrick Sallarulo
Chairman + CEO
Dr. Patrick Sallarulo is a medical professional and seasoned entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in business management. After falling in love with PONKO Chicken’s innovative menu, Dr. Sallarulo recognized the potential to expand the brand while keeping health at the forefront. With a background as a CFO and leader of over 25 organizations, Dr. Sallarulo has applied his expertise to grow PONKO Chicken from a single location to a fast-growing franchise operation. His commitment to health-conscious dining and business excellence drives the brand’s ongoing success and expansion.
Favorite PONKO Chicken Menu Item:
OG Tacos!
Ekow Wilmot
Executive VP + CFO
Ekow Wilmot is a health-conscious entrepreneur and is responsible for implementing PONKO’s strategic goals including overseeing the day-to-day operations of PONKO Chicken, its corporate stores, franchising efforts, and new development projects. With years of experience in business strategy and a former professional athlete, Ekow believes that you can “have your Chicken and eat it, too”. His commitment to wellness and quality food has positioned PONKO as a brand that’s not only innovative but also dedicated to offering healthier alternatives to traditional fast food.
Favorite PONKO Chicken Menu Item:
Island Grilled Chicken with PONKO Rice and Green Beans!
Kendra Willis
Corporate Director of Sales + Catering + Events
Kendra Willis has over 15 years of experience in the Hospitality industry and works directly with PONKO’s catering and events partnerships, business development, and brand expansion projects and menu development. Kendra has a Saké Sommelier certification from the Saké Service Institute in Tokyo, Japan.
Favorite PONKO Chicken Menu Item:
PONKO Fried Mushroom Salad!
Jason Morgan
Corporate Executive Chef
Chef Jason has over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry and is responsible for PONKO’s food quality control as well as menu design, development, and implementation. He works with manufacturers and distributors to ensure that PONKO receives the highest quality products for the best available price.
Favorite PONKO Chicken Menu Item:
OG Chicken Tenders with PONKO Rice and Fries!
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