LAKEWOOD, COLO. — Manny Hilario has been named chief operations officer of Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, Inc. He succeeds Brian Unger, who is retiring from Einstein Noah, effective July 18, after leading company operations as chief restaurant officer for the past two years.

Mr. Hilario’s promotion is part of a planned succession that expanded his responsibility over the past year to include direct operating responsibility for both Einstein Bros. Bagels licensed locations and The Manhattan Bagel franchised restaurants. In addition to his financial and strategic leadership capabilities, Mr. Hilario has operations experience that he has cultivated over the past 25 years in the restaurant business. The experience includes restaurant management and direct operating responsibility.

“Manny is a highly respected leader within the Einstein Noah system, not only for his financial expertise, but also as an insightful and results-driven restaurateur,” said Jeffrey O’Neill, president and chief executive officer. “I am pleased to have Manny take on this expanded leadership role, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with him as a strategic partner to further strengthen our operations team.”

Einstein Noah said a search is under way to replace Mr. Hilario in his current role.