Next Level Brands is reshaping its leadership team, doubling down on internal talent to fuel its next stage of growth.
The hospitality group announced Chef Jacob Rios, the creative force behind Union New American, has been named Director of Culinary and will join the executive leadership team. Stepping into Rios’ former role, Chef Casey Alfonso has been promoted to Executive Chef of Union, one of Tampa’s most visible restaurants in the group’s portfolio.
For Founder Jeff Gigante, the moves signal more than a routine shuffle.
“These promotions highlight the depth of talent within our team and underscore our commitment to fostering growth from within,” Gigante said. “Chef Jacob has played a key role in shaping our culinary identity and we are excited to see him take on a broader leadership role. Chef Casey’s promotion reflects his dedication, skill and vision, and we look forward to the continued success of Union under his guidance.”
LEARN MORE ABOUT GIGANTE: Chatting with restauranteur Jeff Gigante
A broader culinary mandate
Rios, trained at Le Cordon Bleu and a Food Network “Chopped” winner, has been instrumental in establishing Union’s identity. His menus fused modern techniques with globally inspired flavors, earning the restaurant critical attention and a loyal following. In his new role, he will expand that vision across the company, overseeing innovation, standards and mentorship for the entire brand.
The shift reflects a broader push by Next Level Brands to institutionalize creativity while scaling operations across multiple concepts. Rios’ promotion also positions him as a bridge between the kitchens and the executive suite, connecting chefs’ crafts to corporate strategy.
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Leadership from within
For Alfonso, the promotion is both a professional and personal achievement. A Tampa native who rose through Union’s kitchen, he brings a mix of technical expertise and collaborative leadership to one of the city’s most ambitious dining rooms. His approach, colleagues say, has helped build a culture where precision and teamwork are valued equally.
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By moving Alfonso up, Next Level Brands reinforces a theme that’s becoming central to its growth: cultivating leaders internally rather than importing them. That strategy, executives believe, fosters consistency in both brand and culture at a time when the hospitality industry faces headwinds in staffing and retention.
Positioning for expansion
The dual promotions arrive as Next Level Brands looks ahead to new concepts and an expanding footprint in the Tampa Bay Area. The group’s portfolio, anchored in chef-led kitchens and hospitality at scale, continues to emphasize guest experience while building organizational muscle behind the scenes.
The message to both diners and investors is clear: this is a company investing in its people as much as in its properties.