Steve Ells | |
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Born | Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S. | September 12, 1965
Alma mater | University of Colorado at Boulder (B.A.) Culinary Institute of America |
Years active | 1993–2020 |
Known for | Founding Chipotle Mexican Grill |
Steve Ells (born September 12, 1965)[1] is an American businessman. He is the founder, former chief executive officer, and former executive chairman of Chipotle Mexican Grill. Ells founded Chipotle in 1993,[1] and under his direction,[2] the chain serves what it describes as "naturally raised meat" and promotes sustainable agriculture.[3]
On November 29, 2017, Chipotle announced Ells' resignation as CEO, pending the search for a new CEO with "turnaround expertise". Ells served as executive chairman following the appointment of a new CEO, and served on the CEO search committee. Brian Niccol became CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill in February 2018. On March 6, 2020, Ells resigned as chairman and left the board of directors, breaking his final ties to the company.[4][5]