Alexandria Restaurant Partners has appointed Nazia Millwala as president, elevating her from the role of chief financial officer. The promotion comes as co-founders Dave Nicholas, David Clapp and Scott Shaw transition away from day-to-day operations. Millwala joined ARP in January 2022 as vice president of finance and was promoted to CFO in August 2024. In her new role, she will oversee operations, finance, people and culture, marketing, and food and beverage execution across ARP's portfolio, which includes Ada's on the River, Mia's Italian Kitchen, Vola's Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge, Theismann's Restaurant and Bar, Palette 22, BARCA Pier & Wine Bar, Royal Restaurant, and two Orlando locations—Mia's Italian Kitchen and Café Tu Tu Tango.

Background and Strategy Before ARP, Millwala spent 12 years with Yum!

Brands in finance, marketing and development roles across Canada, the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan and Turkey. Her responsibilities included business analysis, regional marketing strategy, franchise development, market expansion and portfolio growth. She began her career at KPMG, working with Fortune 500 companies on financial analysis, risk assessment and strategic planning. Millwala holds a commerce degree from the University of Wollongong in Australia and an MBA from IE Business School in Madrid. Millwala's first-year priorities include ensuring a smooth transition, building an expanded executive leadership team and establishing a strong operational structure. Over the next 18 months, she plans to develop the company's next generation of managers and leaders, expand sales channels such as catering, and strengthen marketing efforts.

Leadership Perspective "Scott, David and I are incredibly proud of what our team has built, and we believe this is the right time to transition day-to-day leadership to Nazia," said Dave Nicholas, co-founder and partner of Alexandria Restaurant Partners. "She has earned the trust and respect of our team through her thoughtful leadership, broad business perspective and genuine commitment to our people. We look forward to remaining involved and supporting her as she leads ARP forward." "ARP's greatest strength is the people who bring our restaurants to life every day," said Millwala. "My priority is to give our teams the clarity and support they need to do their best work. We have an incredible opportunity to build on what makes our restaurants special, find new ways to serve our guests and contribute even more to the communities we call home."

Why It Matters

The promotion reflects a broader trend in multi-unit restaurant operations: CFOs with international expansion and franchise experience moving into operating roles. Millwala's background across diverse markets and her focus on leadership development and community ties signal ARP's intent to scale and professionalize its management structure beyond its founders.

For more insights and trends in the food and beverage sector, check out more articles in The Food & Beverage Magazine family of publications.

Written by FBM Publications Editors