First Watch Restaurant Group Names Ashlee Weisser as Chief Financial Officer

BRADENTON, Florida — June 8, 2026 — First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FWRG), one of America's leading daytime dining restaurant chains specializing in breakfast, brunch, and lunch, has announced the appointment of Ashlee Weisser as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective immediately as of June 8, 2026.

The leadership transition marks an important milestone for the company as it continues its nationwide expansion strategy and strengthens its executive team. Weisser succeeds Mel Hope, who previously announced plans to retire earlier this year. Hope will remain with the company in an advisory capacity to help ensure a smooth and seamless transition of responsibilities.

A Strategic Leadership Appointment

First Watch's Board of Directors selected Ashlee Weisser for the CFO role following her successful tenure within the organization and her extensive financial leadership experience in the restaurant industry.

Weisser joined First Watch in 2023 as Senior Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis. Since joining the company, she has played a significant role in strengthening financial operations, supporting strategic planning initiatives, and helping guide the company's growth objectives.

Her promotion reflects the confidence the company's leadership team has in her ability to oversee financial strategy, capital allocation, investor relations, and long-term value creation for shareholders.

CEO Expresses Confidence in Weisser's Leadership

Chris Tomasso, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Watch Restaurant Group, praised Weisser's contributions and leadership capabilities.

According to Tomasso, Weisser has consistently demonstrated strong financial discipline, strategic thinking, and operational expertise throughout her tenure with the company. He emphasized that her deep understanding of the restaurant business and her proven ability to execute growth initiatives make her exceptionally qualified for the CFO position.

The company believes her appointment will help strengthen First Watch's financial foundation while supporting continued expansion across the United States.

Extensive Restaurant Industry Experience

Before joining First Watch, Ashlee Weisser accumulated more than 15 years of experience in finance, accounting, business analytics, and strategic planning across several well-known restaurant brands.

Most recently, she served as Chief Financial Officer of Maple Street Biscuit Company, where she played a key role during a period of accelerated growth following the brand's acquisition by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store.

Her professional background also includes finance leadership positions at several major restaurant organizations, including:

• Bloomin' Brands
• Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
• Darden Restaurants

These experiences have provided Weisser with extensive expertise in financial planning, operational efficiency, growth management, budgeting, forecasting, and corporate strategy.

Supporting Long-Term Growth Objectives

First Watch continues to experience significant growth throughout the United States. The company currently operates more than 640 restaurants across 32 states, making it one of the fastest-growing daytime dining concepts in the country.

The appointment of Weisser comes at a time when the company is focused on expanding its restaurant footprint, enhancing operational performance, and creating sustainable long-term shareholder value.

As CFO, Weisser will oversee key financial functions, including:

• Corporate finance and accounting
• Financial planning and analysis
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Investor relations
• Capital allocation strategies
• Financial reporting and compliance
• Risk management initiatives

Her leadership is expected to support the company's efforts to maintain financial strength while pursuing future growth opportunities.

Mel Hope to Continue as Advisor

Outgoing CFO Mel Hope will remain involved with First Watch during the transition period as an advisor to the executive team.

Hope has been instrumental in helping guide the company's financial success over the years and has played a significant role in strengthening its balance sheet, supporting public market operations, and facilitating strategic growth initiatives.

Company leadership expressed appreciation for Hope's contributions and indicated that his continued advisory role will help ensure continuity and stability during the transition process.

Compensation Package for New CFO

In connection with her promotion, First Watch's Board of Directors approved a new compensation package for Weisser.

According to company filings, her compensation includes:

• Annual base salary of approximately $475,000
• Target annual incentive bonus equal to 70% of base salary
• Restricted stock unit (RSU) award valued at approximately $275,000

The compensation structure is designed to align executive performance with shareholder interests and the company's long-term strategic objectives.

About First Watch Restaurant Group

Founded in 1983, First Watch has established itself as a premier daytime dining brand known for freshly prepared breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings.

Unlike many restaurant chains, First Watch focuses exclusively on daytime operating hours and emphasizes made-to-order meals prepared using high-quality ingredients.

The company has earned recognition for both its menu offerings and workplace culture, receiving numerous industry awards and accolades in recent years.

Its continued expansion strategy has positioned the brand as a major player within the casual dining and breakfast restaurant segment.

Looking Ahead

The appointment of Ashlee Weisser as Chief Financial Officer signals First Watch's commitment to developing internal leadership talent while maintaining a strong financial framework for future growth.

With extensive restaurant industry experience, a deep understanding of the company's operations, and a proven track record of financial leadership, Weisser is expected to play a central role in guiding First Watch through its next phase of expansion and value creation.

As the company continues to open new locations, strengthen customer engagement, and enhance operational efficiency, investors and industry observers will be watching closely to see how the new CFO helps shape First Watch's financial strategy and long-term success.

Source: Company announcement issued by First Watch Restaurant Group on June 8, 2026.

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