Leadership

Individuals influencing the direction of the restaurant industry

First Watch CEO Chris Tomasso among IFMA Silver Plate Award winners

By Heather Lalley on Mar. 05, 2024

The 70th annual awards from the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association recognize leaders who have made lasting contributions to advance the foodservice industry.

Leadership

NYC's Institute of Culinary Education celebrates Jacques Pépin and his educational legacy

By Patricia Cobe on Mar. 05, 2024

Pépin was a founding dean of the French Culinary Institute, a training ground for some of today’s most influential chefs.

Leadership

What you might not know about Jacques Pepin

By Peter Romeo on Mar. 05, 2024

Restaurant Rewind: A chef, educator, author and early TV star, the relocated Frenchman helped to popularize fine-dining. And then there was his time at Howard Johnson's.

Leadership

First Watch co-founder Ken Pendery dies at age 70

By Peter Romeo on Mar. 05, 2024

He was involved in the daytime dining chain for 38 years, many of them spent as CEO. "Ken's impact and influence is—and will forever be—felt throughout our organization," current CEO Chris Tomasso said.

Leadership

Chili's, Maggiano's parent Brinker makes some executive changes

By Restaurant Business Staff on Mar. 01, 2024

Executive Summary: Wendy's has a new tech chief and Captain D's makes plans for global expansion with an executive hire.

Leadership

Cracker Barrel's new CEO airs her roadmap back to better times

By Peter Romeo on Feb. 27, 2024

Julie Masino wants to accelerate the family dining chain's rejuvenation efforts and menu evolution.

Leadership

Joe Essa named president, COO of Yardbird

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 27, 2024

Known for his work with Wolfgang Puck Worldwide and Thomas Keller Restaurant Group, Essa is tasked with helping the casual-dining concept grow around the world.

Leadership

Mountain Mike's gets a new CEO, Bloomin' Brands CFO retires and more executive updates

By Restaurant Business Staff on Feb. 23, 2024

Executive Summary: Jim Metevier was elevated to chief executive of the pizza chain and Christopher Meyer is retiring from the Outback Steakhouse parent after two decades.

Leadership