Multiconcept operator Russo’s Restaurants appointed Vincenzo Lavecchia to serve as corporate chef. In his new role Lavecchia will lead menu expansion, staff development and more. Vincenzo Lavecchia

The new corporate chef will spend time at every Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen location training managers on proper food preparation and culinary techniques, according to a release announcing his hiring.

A two-time world champion pizza maker and a three-time United Arab Emirates pizza champion, Lavecchia’s culinary background includes more than six years’ experience working as a head chef at Eataly and Ronda Locatelli in Dubai.