Red Lobster names chief global development officer, CFO and EVP of transformation
Leadership additions strengthen operational excellence, real estate strategy and partnership growth initiatives.
Seafood restaurant brand Red Lobster is announcing the appointments of Brad Hill as chief financial officer and executive vice president, transformation, and Kristen Briede as chief global development officer. Both executives will join the company's executive leadership team and report to Red Lobster Chief Executive Officer Damola Adamolekun.
"Red Lobster has made significant progress coming out of a challenging period, and we're now shifting from stabilization to a disciplined, execution-led growth phase focused on optimizing the guest experience, driving operational excellence, accelerating real estate optimization and building a stronger platform for durable growth," said Adamolekun. "Brad and Kristen are proven, high-impact leaders.
"Brad brings the operational finance leadership and transformation mindset to drive outcomes, and Kristen brings deep experience building best-in-class franchise, partnership and retail brand development engines. I'm excited to welcome them both to Red Lobster."
As chief financial officer and executive vice president, transformation, Hill will lead Red Lobster's finance organization, oversee planning, forecasting, and stakeholder reporting, and partner with operations to drive performance excellence. He will also lead the company's strategic real estate efforts, from negotiations through economic analysis and deal execution.
Hill previously held multiple executive roles at P.F. Chang's, where he partnered finance and operations to drive sustained performance and executed major real estate initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hill ucceeds Bob Baker, who has departed the company.
As chief global development officer, Briede will lead Red Lobster's asset‑light growth and brand development agenda, including domestic and international franchising, travel and airport formats, and strategic partnerships, retail and licensing opportunities that extend the brand beyond the dining room.
Briede brings deep experience building and scaling franchising and partnership platforms at leading restaurant brands, including P.F. Chang's and Steak 'n Shake, with a track record of launching new growth channels and putting in place the systems, standards, and partner governance required to scale sustainably.
These leadership changes reflect Red Lobster's commitment to strengthening its operational foundation, enhancing agility, and delivering an improved experience for guests as the company continues executing its long‑term growth plan.
Source: Red Lobster Seafood Co.
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