JINYA Ramen Bar hired Tom Cardenas to serve as its new director of hospitality and beverage.

In his new position, Cardenas will be responsible for training service and hospitality to JINYA’s employees and ensuring the brand is prepared to train franchisees according to JINYA’s high standards. Additionally, Cardenas will create a new beverage program and train those working within it.

For nearly 20 years, Cardenas worked for Innovative Dining Group, where he held various positions of increasing responsibility. Cardenas most recently served as chief operating officer for Global Dining Inc. of California, overseeing and leading operations for La Boheme and 1212 Santa Monica. His other roles include serving as opening general manager for Sushi Roki and vice president of operations.

The 10-year old JINYA Ramen Bar has 32 locations in the U.S. and 2 in Canada.