Greenwood Village, Colo. — Paul Murphy, president and chief executive officer of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc., has informed the company’s board of directors that he intends to retire at the end of 2022 when his employment agreement expires. Murphy will be assisting the board as they search to identify a successor and will remain as a special advisor until March 31, 2023 to work with the board and his successor to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
Murphy is an experienced veteran of the restaurant industry having begun his career at Bennigan’s and subsequently held multiple leadership assignments at brands including Einstein/Noah Restaurant Group, Del Taco Restaurant Group and Noodles & Company. He joined Red Robin in October 2019 and advised the board at the time that it was his intention to serve for 3 years as a transitionary leader to quickly improve operating execution and overall performance.
Murphy has led the company during one of the most tumultuous eras in the history of the restaurant industry. During his tenure, Murphy has been able to restore in-restaurant operating execution, manage the onset and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growth of off-premises sales, implement an enhanced service model, secure a new 5-year credit facility, and lead the brand to improving overall performance as the industry continues to recover.
“We appreciate Paul’s leadership during this turbulent period and all the work that he and his team have done to navigate the storm of the last 3 years,” says Dave Pace, board chair. “As was his intention when he joined Red Robin, Paul has stabilized the foundation and positioned the brand for renewed growth going forward. On behalf of the board, I want to thank Paul for his contributions to Red Robin.”
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (www.redrobin.com) is a casual-dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., and under the trade name, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews. There are more than 520 Red Robin restaurants across the United States and Canada, including those operating under franchise agreements.
SOURCE: Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc.