John Pepper

John Pepper is an entrepreneur and early-stage investor best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Boloco, a fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in burritos and bowls. Here are some key details about John Pepper:

Background and Education

• Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio
• Graduated from Dartmouth College in 1991
• Received his MBA from Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth in 199724

Boloco

• Co-founded Boloco (originally called Under Wraps, then The Wrap) in 1997 with Adam Liebman, Gregg Harris, and Jason Hutchinson while a second-year student at Tuck134
• Opened the first location near Berklee College of Music in Boston4
• Served as CEO for many years, helping grow the chain to 22 locations at its peak2
• Left the company briefly in 2013 but returned in 2015 to lead a turnaround effort3
• Currently serves as Chief Worker Advocate and CEO of the now-smaller Boloco chain2

Other Business Ventures

• Early investor in B.Good restaurant chain in 20032
• Has invested in over 30 consumer, restaurant, and hospitality tech startups2
• Co-founder of Worthee, a technology platform aimed at helping hourly workers4

Achievements and Roles

• Won the 2012 Regional Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award4
• Named one of the top 24 "Movers and Shakers" in the restaurant industry by Fast Casual in 20174
• Serves on the boards of Botanica Seattle, Hone, Boston Private Industry Council, and Positive Tracks25
• Served on the Selectboard of Norwich, VT from 2017-2020, including as Chair from 2018-20202

John Pepper is known for his focus on social responsibility in business, including paying above-average wages and pursuing environmental certifications for Boloco.34 He continues to be involved in the restaurant industry and startup ecosystem as an investor and advisor.