Supply Chain with a Soul with El Pollo Loco’s Jeff Burrus - Grounded Podcast - Episode #25
Take a deep dive into how heritage, innovation, and collaboration shape a resilient and forward-thinking supply chain. Jeff Burrus, Vice President of Supply Chain at El Pollo Loco, shares how he honors the brand’s legacy while driving operational efficiency, technological integration, and strategic sourcing.
In this episode, Jeff explores what it means to lead with empathy, manage complexity through real-time data, and balance innovation with tradition. From rebranding initiatives to AI forecasting and mentorship, this conversation offers meaningful insights for anyone supporting growth across the foodservice supply chain.
Takeaways:
- Why empathy across teams improves operations and outcomes.
- How real-time data helps supply chains shift from reactive to proactive.
- Why strong supplier relationships are key to quality and resilience.
- How AI and analytics improve forecasting and reduce waste.
- How sourcing strategies adapt to global pressures and consumer demand.
Quote of the Show:
- "The only way to really appreciate who you work with and what you can do for them is to understand their role and the different challenges they face." - Jeff Burrus
Connect with Jeff:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-burrus-/
- Company website: https://www.elpolloloco.com/
Ways to Tune In:
- Transistor: https://www.groundedonthepod.com/
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033
- Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460
- iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/
- Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267
- Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441
Creators and Guests
Host
Lauren Mitchell
Lauren Mitchell is the Director of National Accounts and Custom Distribution at Produce Alliance, LLC. She is a dedicated fresh produce spend & spec maximizer for multi-unit national restaurant chains & groups. She gets to know your brand and infuses your expectation for quality, consistency and transparency to create more reliability in your produce category.
