Who We Are
Hot Head Burritos has a solid history grounded in delivering flavorful and satisfying fast-casual dining experiences. Established in 2007, our brand has steadily grown and earned the trust of customers and franchisees alike. Owned and operated by experienced restaurateurs, Hot Head Burritos has evolved into the preferred choice for those seeking bold flavors, fresh food and great service. Our community involvement reflects a commitment to making a positive impact locally. With a focus on practical franchisee support, including training initiatives, simplified operations and open communication, Hot Head Burritos is a balanced approach to growth.
Team Effort
As a franchisee, you are part of a community that values collaboration and a brand that understands the importance of keeping it simple while delivering on taste. Join us on this journey, where our straightforward approach has made us a go-to destination for those craving delicious, custom-made burritos, bowls, tacos and more. Ready for a no-nonsense, flavor-packed business move? Join Hot Head Burritos – where we keep it spicy, support is solid, and success is the name of the game!
Ray Wiley
Co-founder and CEO
Ray Wiley grew up on the West Coast and cut his teeth in the restaurant business during the early years of Pizza Hut when his father owned, and then subsequently sold, several stores. Food was in his blood at that point and he became store manager for concepts such as Pepperoni Express, Domino’s, and Skyline. Supervision of 10 Skyline Chili stores in Columbus Ohio ended up bringing Ray to Dayton in 1989. Ray purchased his first Subway that year and was named Regional Franchisee of the year in 2002, owning as many 15 stores.
In 2007, after studying the Mexican restaurant sector, Ray came up with the idea for Hot Head Burritos in 2007. The focus of Hot Head Burritos has always been fresh food full of customizable flavor. Ray and his partners own 20 of the 85+ Hot Head stores. Hot Head Burritos was named to Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers and Shaker’s list in 2012 at number 36, 2018 at number 57, and in 2019 at number 61. Hot Head was recognized in Dayton Business Journal’s Top 100 Companies in 2018 at number 67, in 2019 at 57, number 58 in 2020
In September of 2015, Wiley co-founded Rapid Fired Pizza. Rapid Fired Pizza was named to Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers and Shaker’s list in 2020 at number 63. Restaurant Business ranked Rapid Fired Pizza as number 17 in their Future 50 in 2019. Rapid Fired Pizza was recognized in Dayton Business Journals Top 100 in 2019 at number 88 and in 2020 at 83. In 2021, Rapid Fired Pizza was sold with 35 stores to an investment group led by an existing franchisee.
Kelly Gray
Corporate VP and Director of Real Estate
Kelly Gray, Vice President and Co-owner of Hot Head Burritos, leverages nearly 20 years of commercial real estate consulting experience to drive the company’s growth and success. Her expertise spans site selection, leasing, development, and capital investments, with a particular focus on restaurant real estate. Kelly has worked with a diverse range of clients, including publicity traded to small landlords, franchisees from various brands, and even first-time restaurant operators. This extensive experience is invaluable to Hot Head franchisees during site selection and lease negotiations.
Kelly holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations from Capital University in Columbus, OH. She is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) of the Board of Realtors, a designation that underscores her proficiency in the financial aspects of real estate transactions. Kelly even served as an adjunct professor at a Dayton area college for five years, sharing her knowledge with students. Previously, she was a Series 7 licensed Financial Securities Representative.
In 2015, Kelly co-founded Rapid Fired Pizza, growing the business to 35 stores before successfully selling it to an investment group in 2021. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision continue to drive success for Hot Head Burritos. Kelly’s professional affiliations, dedication to lifelong learning and mentoring others underscore her commitment to excellence.
Peter Wiley
VP of Marketing and IT
Peter grew working in the restaurant industry, waiting tables at 12 years old in Skyline Chilis his family operated. He has done everything from washing dishes, to being a line cook, to bartending, to being a store manager.
He has spent the last 20 years developing brands and marketing materials across a wide variety of platforms including live events, TV, radio, print, web, mobile apps, and social media.
In 2007, Ray recruited him to help develop the Hot Head Burritos brand where he now serves as the Vice President of Marketing and IT. He also oversees the operation of 10 Hot Head Burritos locations in the Toledo, Youngstown, Akron, and Cleveland markets.
Peter is married with 5 kids, 3 cats, and 2 dogs. He enjoys fine bourbon, wine, camping, and running sound for a local country band in his free time.