Leadership Overview
Fogo de Chão has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, marketing, human resources, and international expansion.
Committed to authentic Brazilian culinary traditions, Fogo de Chão delivers premium dining experiences through high-quality meats and seasonal offerings while maintaining a global standard for hospitality excellence.
Committed to authentic Brazilian culinary traditions, Fogo de Chão delivers premium dining experiences through high-quality meats and seasonal offerings while maintaining a global standard for hospitality excellence.
Leadership Roles at Fogo de Chão
George Mcgowan - Chief Executive Officer
George Mcgowan, the Chief Executive Officer at Fogo de Chão, directs the overarching strategic vision for the global steakhouse brand. Overseeing the expansion of the restaurant portfolio, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent delivery of authentic Brazilian dining experiences across all North American and international locations. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to drive long-term profitability and brand equity. By prioritizing operational excellence and menu innovation, George Mcgowan maintains the competitive edge of the company within the premium hospitality sector. The Chief Executive Officer monitors market trends to adapt the business model, ensuring that the brand remains a leader in the full-service dining industry. Through rigorous oversight of corporate governance and resource allocation, Mcgowan secures the financial health and cultural integrity of the organization, fostering sustainable growth in diverse markets.
Daniel Duran - Chief Financial Officer
Daniel Duran, the Chief Financial Officer at Fogo de Chão, directs the financial planning, reporting, and capital allocation strategies for the organization. Overseeing the fiscal health of the company, the Chief Financial Officer manages budgeting processes and investment decisions to support long-term expansion goals. This leadership role involves analyzing revenue streams from food, beverage, and catering services to identify opportunities for margin improvement. By maintaining transparent financial controls, Daniel Duran ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and provides accurate reporting to stakeholders. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align capital expenditures with the strategic objectives of the brand. Through rigorous risk assessment and cash flow management, Duran strengthens the balance sheet of the company. This financial oversight enables the business to invest in new restaurant openings and technology upgrades, driving consistent growth and shareholder value.
Richard Lenderman - Chief Operating Officer
Richard Lenderman, the Chief Operating Officer at Fogo de Chão, manages the daily execution of restaurant operations and supply chain logistics. Overseeing the procurement of high-quality beef, lamb, and fresh produce, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every location adheres to strict quality standards. This leadership role involves optimizing kitchen workflows and service protocols to maximize efficiency across the entire restaurant network. By implementing standardized training programs, Richard Lenderman guarantees a uniform guest experience regardless of geographic location. The Chief Operating Officer coordinates with regional managers to address operational challenges and improve service speed. Through the continuous refinement of inventory management systems, Lenderman reduces waste and enhances profitability. This focus on operational precision supports the broader mission of delivering exceptional Brazilian cuisine while maintaining the high standards expected by patrons of the brand.
Andrew Feldmann - President, International
Andrew Feldmann, the President, International at Fogo de Chão, directs the expansion and operational success of the brand in markets outside the United States. Overseeing the entry into new countries, the President, International manages local partnerships, regulatory compliance, and site selection to ensure successful launches. This leadership role involves adapting the core Brazilian steakhouse concept to meet the cultural nuances and consumer preferences of diverse international regions. By establishing strong operational foundations in new territories, Andrew Feldmann drives revenue growth and brand recognition on a global scale. The President, International coordinates with corporate headquarters to ensure that international locations maintain the same quality standards as domestic restaurants. Through the strategic management of supply chains and local talent, Feldmann optimizes the performance of the international portfolio. This focus on global growth expands the footprint of the company and solidifies its position as a premier international dining destination.
Michael Breed - Chief Marketing Officer
Michael Breed, the Chief Marketing Officer at Fogo de Chão, architects the brand identity and customer engagement strategies for the global steakhouse chain. Overseeing digital marketing, loyalty programs, and promotional campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer drives guest acquisition and retention across all markets. This leadership role involves crafting compelling narratives that highlight the unique Brazilian heritage and culinary offerings of the restaurants. By leveraging data analytics, Michael Breed optimizes advertising spend to reach target demographics effectively. The Chief Marketing Officer coordinates with regional teams to tailor marketing initiatives to local preferences while maintaining a cohesive global brand image. Through the development of innovative menu promotions and seasonal events, Breed increases foot traffic and enhances the overall dining experience. This strategic focus on brand positioning ensures that the company remains a top-of-mind choice for premium dining consumers worldwide.
Clarice Colon - Chief People Officer
Clarice Colon, the Chief People Officer at Fogo de Chão, directs the human resources strategy, talent acquisition, and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing the development of training programs for gaucho chefs and service staff, the Chief People Officer ensures that the workforce embodies the hospitality values of the brand. This leadership role involves managing employee relations, compensation structures, and performance management systems to foster a high-performing environment. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, Clarice Colon builds a robust talent pipeline capable of supporting the rapid growth of the company. The Chief People Officer collaborates with operational leaders to address staffing needs and improve retention rates across all restaurant locations. Through the implementation of comprehensive wellness and professional development programs, Colon enhances the employee experience. This focus on human capital ensures that the organization maintains the service excellence required to succeed in the competitive hospitality industry.
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