Luna Grill, a fast-casual, Mediterranean-style concept with locations in California and Texas, has announced the appointment of industry veteran Nicole Abraham as the company’s vice president of marketing.

Since its founding in 2004, the company has been on a strategic growth path, currently accelerating by expanding to 21 locations by the end of 2015 and more than 40 in the next 24 months. Abraham's appointment continues building the strength of the management team, positioning the company for smart growth in new markets.

Abraham is a board member of the California Restaurant Association and comes to Luna Grill from the Ladeki Restaurant Group, where she served as both vice president of marketing and director of marketing for the 17-unit operator with locations in California and Nevada. During her tenure, she led all brand management activities, including creative/design, public relations, social media, digital marketing, local store marketing, four walls marketing, advertising, and events for the company's brands, including Sammy's Woodfired Pizza, Sammy's Restaurant + Bar, Roppongi Restaurant + Sushi Bar, and Table 89.

Beyond her work leading the marketing and branding efforts for all Ladeki properties, she was an integral part of the culinary team, developing seasonal promotions, pairings, and menu offerings tied to consumer trends and innovative flavors.

Prior to working with Ladeki, Abraham was director of marketing and brand development for Pat & Oscar's Restaurants, one of the early innovators in fast-casual dining. She developed campaigns to build the company's loyalty program as well as support new store openings and a complete rebranding program throughout the company's 19 locations.

"Nicole's experience and success when it comes to brand development is vital as we continue to expand," says Sean Pourteymour, chief executive officer of Luna Grill. "Her expertise will help us build a strong campaign to share the Luna Grill values and unique menu flavors as we expand into new markets," he added. Abraham echoes Pourteymour's enthusiasm regarding a brand evolution for Luna Grill. "I'm thrilled at the opportunity to take the passion already in place for Luna Grill and expand it to a wider audience," she adds.

Luna Grill was founded by Sean and Maria Pourteymour, who saw a need for quality, healthy cuisine in a casual setting. Maria took her family's restaurant background and experience as a mom looking to create wholesome meals to build well-rounded selections. “I wanted to provide wholesome food that I’d want my own children to eat, so our menu is centered on food that is fresh, natural, healthy and delicious with no trans fats.”