Eric Hartman serves as Chief Development Officer at First Watch Restaurant Group Inc., a leading daytime dining chain renowned for its breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings. In this executive role, he spearheads the company's real estate strategy, overseeing site selection, lease negotiations, construction management, and expansion initiatives to fuel First Watch's nationwide growth. Under his leadership, the company has expanded to more than 500 locations across 30 states, transforming from a regional favorite into a national powerhouse while maintaining a focus on prime, high-traffic urban and suburban sites. Hartman joined First Watch in 2015 as Vice President of Development, rapidly advancing to Senior Vice President and then Chief Development Officer due to his exceptional results in accelerating the development pipeline. His tenure has coincided with a surge in new restaurant openings—over 200 since his arrival—achieved through innovative market analysis, strategic partnerships, and efficient project execution that consistently delivers on time and under budget. Notable achievements include pioneering entry into key markets like the Northeast and West Coast, and implementing sustainable construction practices that align with the brand's commitment to community and environmental responsibility. Prior to First Watch, Hartman built a distinguished career in restaurant real estate, holding senior development roles at Bloomin' Brands and other major chains, where he honed his expertise in franchise growth and commercial leasing. A graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in real estate, he is recognized industry-wide for his forward-thinking approach and has been featured in publications like Nation's Restaurant News for driving operational excellence in high-growth environments.