Slutty Vegan, the Atlanta-based plant-based fast-food sensation, is entering a bold new era as Lauren Maillian has been named president of the brand — making history as the first Black woman to hold the role.
The announcement, made by founder and CEO Pinky Cole Hayes, marks a strategic move to scale the company’s offerings, expand into new markets, and elevate the digital and consumer experience.
The appointment was first reported by Black Enterprise and officially took effect on June 4, 2025. With over 20 years of experience in technology, media, and venture capital, Maillian brings a powerful mix of executive insight and cultural fluency to the Slutty Vegan leadership team.
“Slutty Vegan 2.0 isn’t just a rebrand—it’s a resurrection,” said Cole Hayes, referencing her return to full ownership of the company after navigating personal and professional challenges, including a car accident and previous internal ownership disputes.
Maillian’s leadership is expected to catalyze several key initiatives, including the expansion of brick-and-mortar locations, growth of consumer packaged goods, and modernization of digital engagement and customer experience.
From upgraded mobile ordering platforms to in-store interactions, Maillian’s mission is to create a scalable, tech-savvy vegan empire.
A former venture capitalist and serial entrepreneur, Maillian has worked with high-growth brands across food and beverage, retail, and digital tech. She also brings deep ties to startup culture, previously serving as CEO of digitalundivided, a nonprofit aimed at supporting women of color tech founders.
The collaboration between Cole Hayes and Maillian dates back to a 2017 Operation HOPE conference, where the two first met. Their recent reconnection at ExcelerateHER, a summit for women leaders, reignited the spark that has now become a professional partnership aimed at transforming the plant-based dining space.
The timing of this announcement is pivotal. As Black women remain underrepresented in executive leadership roles across industries, Cole Hayes said naming Maillian president is as much about strategic innovation as it is about symbolic representation.
Slutty Vegan’s latest spinoff concept, VOAGIES, a plant-based sub shop, offers a glimpse of the brand’s expansion strategy under Maillian’s guidance. With her at the helm, fans can expect a sharpened focus on product development, operational infrastructure, and a bolder brand experience.
“Slutty Vegan has always been bigger than burgers. It’s a movement,” said Cole Hayes. “Now, with Lauren, we’re building a legacy.”
