Concept Eight Hires Salsas Fresh Mex GM in Bold Move

Australian hospitality group Concept Eight has tapped Tony Rabba, formerly general manager at Salsas Fresh Mex, to lead its burger division as the company prepares for a substantial expansion. Rabba takes over from Michael McNamara, who is transitioning back to network development as Concept Eight sets its sights on adding 25 new sites by 2026. Rabba will oversee 35 restaurants under the Huxtaburger and Pattysmiths brands across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia. In addition to managing the existing network, he will spearhead the launch of a new virtual brand, BamaChicken, reflecting the company’s ambition to diversify and grow in the fast-casual dining market.

Rabba brings nearly two decades of experience in hospitality to the role, with a career that includes leadership positions at Salsas Fresh Mex under Retail Zoo, earlier stints at Wagamama, and managing his own café. Concept Eight’s CEO, Grant Lee, praised Rabba’s operational expertise, noting that his responsibilities will include implementing a recent brand refresh at Huxtaburger and maintaining consistent quality and efficiency across the network.

The leadership change comes as Concept Eight plans to increase its footprint from 35 to 57 restaurants by 2026. Rabba will focus on ensuring operational excellence while guiding the company through new openings and virtual brand initiatives. McNamara’s move to network development is expected to support this rapid expansion while ensuring the brand maintains its standards across all locations.

For franchise investors and industry observers, Rabba’s hire signals Concept Eight’s strategic commitment to strengthening its burger portfolio. By blending fresh leadership with an expansion-focused approach, the company is positioning itself to meet evolving consumer expectations and establish a stronger presence in Australia’s fast-casual sector.