Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ: PTLO) announced Eugene I. Lee Jr. has been appointed chairman of the board, effective immediately. Lee replaces Michael A. Miles Jr., who will retire following the company's 2026 annual meeting.

Lee joined Portillo's board as a director in June 2025. He previously served as CEO of Darden Restaurants from 2015 to 2022 and chairman of Darden's board from 2021 to 2023. Lee currently serves as independent board chair at Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP).

Miles has served as board chairman since 2014 and helped guide Portillo's transition from a founder-led company to a public entity. He also served as interim chief executive officer during a recent strategic reset period.

Director Joshua A. Lutzker will also not stand for reelection at the 2026 annual meeting. Both Miles and Lutzker have served on the board since August 2014. Following their departure, the board will be reduced to seven directors.

"It's an honor to step into the role of Chairman at this pivotal time," Lee said in a statement. "The Board and I appreciate Mike's long-time dedication to and affinity for Portillo's; he has done an excellent job leading the Company's Board for over a decade."

Miles said serving as chairman "has been a true privilege" and noted the restaurant chain's expansion to more than 100 locations during his tenure.

The Chicago-based fast-casual restaurant company operates locations across 11 states, serving Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs and other menu items. The leadership changes were announced in a press release statement.