CPK colleagues Gillette and Rich to join Flax and Rosenfield.
California Pizza Kitchen founders Larry Flax and Rick Rosenfield have announced plans to launch a new fast-casual pizza concept as one of the initial portfolio investments of Flax and Rosenfield Capital Partners, their recently founded firm.

Flax and Rosenfield Capital Partners will look to create and operate its own brands and acquire and develop real estate for its own portfolio, among other tasks. "In addition to straightforward expansion advice, our firm is also capable of providing strategic insight on multi-channel consumer brand growth, funding guidance, real estate development, franchising and more," added Flax.

Joining Flax and Rosenfield in this venture are longtime CPK colleagues Peter Gillette and Steve Rich. Gillette brings more than 20 years of primary experience in operations, concept development and both international and domestic franchising. Over his 25 year career, Rich has specialized in all aspects of real estate development, including holding executive positions with The Taubman Company and Simon Property Group. As a senior vice president at CPK, Rich oversaw the growth and expansion of the chain's restaurants for several years.