White Rhino Coffee, one of Texas’ fastest-growing specialty coffee brands, today announced the appointment of Sara Escamilla as its new President & Chief Executive Officer. Escamilla, who has served in leadership at the company for the past six years, will take the helm as founder Chris Parvin steps down to focus on time with his family and other pursuits.
Escamilla brings deep operational experience and a passion for values-driven leadership to the role. Under her prior stewardship as Chief Operating Officer, White Rhino Coffee has expanded from a small operation with just two locations to a vibrant local brand with 13 cafes and a team of over 140 employees. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter in the company’s 18-year history.
“I’m honored to lead White Rhino Coffee into its next chapter, building on the incredible foundation that was laid when the Company was founded in 2007,” said Escamilla. “Over the past six years, I’ve had the privilege of helping guide our growth—from a small operation with just two coffee shops and 40 employees to a thriving team of 140 across 13 locations. With over two-thirds of our team made up of women, I’m especially passionate about expanding opportunities for women in leadership throughout our organization. We’ve also launched our own roastery right here in Dallas, and we’re excited to keep sharing our signature Texan hospitality with communities across the metroplex.”
Looking ahead, Escamilla emphasized that growth will be pursued with purpose and integrity; continually focused on locally roasted craft coffee. Plans are underway to expand White Rhino’s presence across North Texas and into new regional markets—while staying firmly rooted in the values that have made the brand a beloved local institution.
“We’re focused on sustainable, intentional growth,” Escamilla said. “That means scaling in ways that allow us to preserve what matters most: our people-first culture, our commitment to quality, and the warm, welcoming experience our customers count on every day.”
Founder Chris Parvin, who launched the business in 2007, expressed deep pride in the company’s evolution and confidence in the path forward. “Starting White Rhino was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” said Parvin. “It’s been incredible to watch it grow into a business that not only serves amazing coffee but also truly cares for its people and its community. Now feels like the right time for me to step away from the business so I can focus on my family and other personal ventures. I’m leaving the company in the best possible hands under Sara’s leadership. This transition feels right, and I’ll always be White Rhino’s biggest fan.”
The company remains grounded in its foundational pillars—hospitality, craft, and community—which continue to guide every decision, from training baristas to selecting new neighborhoods to serve. With the launch of its in-house Dallas roastery, White Rhino is also focused on deepening its commitment to quality, sustainability, and local sourcing.
About White Rhino Coffee
Founded in 2007, White Rhino Coffee is a Texas-born specialty coffee company focused on community, hospitality, and high-quality craft coffee. With locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, White Rhino is known for its inviting spaces, locally roasted beans, and commitment to nurturing leadership and opportunity throughout its team.
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