Ben Famous

Proudest accomplishment during my time at CAVA - implemented two hours of paid leave for all team members on Election Day. First national restaurant brand in the nation to do so.

CNBC: Companies are giving employees paid time off to vote in upcoming midterm elections

Had the opportunity to secure many features on the brand - but always thought this did a great job of showing what it takes to run the most innovative fast-casual in the country.

INC.: How Sweetgreen Hopes to Turn Sustainable Salad Into a National Movement

An idea that began over lunch between me and our CEO blossomed into a beautiful new space devoted to culinary innovation. Proud to have led this project from ideation through execution - including the launch of several new menu items.

FORBES: CAVA, The Chipotle Of Mediterranean Cuisine, Opens Its First Innovation Kitchen

From James Beard award-winning chefs to Grammy Award winners - no one quite did collaborations like sweetgreen.

SPORTELUXE: Sweetgreen’s Latest Limited Edition Lunch Bowl Is What Veggie Dreams Are Made Of

Loved this piece as part of a series on the brand’s effort to democratize real food.

LIFE AND THYME: Turning Over a New Leaf

First major format evolution in brand history. Worked alongside store development, tech, and product teams to craft an engaging narrative behind the launch.

FORBES: Cava Is Reimagining The Drive-Thru Experience, With Help From Data Scientists

Managed the external and internal brand strategy around the acquisition of then publicly-traded Zoës Kitchen.

REUTERS: CAVA to acquire Zoe's Kitchen for $300 million

Served as Senator Stabenow’s and the Senate Agriculture Committee’s chief spokesperson during the passage of the first-ever national GMO labeling legislation.

NY TIMES: G.M.O. Labeling Bill Clears First Hurdle in Senate

The behind-the-scenes on what it took to get the 2014 Farm Bill signed into law.

NY TIMES: Farm Bill Reflects Shifting American Menu and a Senator’s Persistent Tilling

Putting a spotlight on “Too Big To Fail.”

ROLLING STONE: Too-Big-to-Fail Takes Another Body Blow