Leadership Overview
Red Robin has 11 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, legal, and human resources.
Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, Red Robin is dedicated to serving craveable, high-quality burgers and fostering a fun environment that brings friends and families together, solidifying its position as the Gourmet Burger Authority.
Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, Red Robin is dedicated to serving craveable, high-quality burgers and fostering a fun environment that brings friends and families together, solidifying its position as the Gourmet Burger Authority.
Leadership Roles at Red Robin
Gerard Hart - Acting Chief Executive Officer
Gerard Hart, the Acting Chief Executive Officer at Red Robin, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Hart oversees all departments, ensuring alignment with the brand's mission to be the Gourmet Burger Authority. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team in navigating market dynamics and driving sustainable growth across the restaurant chain. Hart's focus includes enhancing the guest experience, optimizing operational efficiency, and maintaining the high standards of quality and fun that define Red Robin. Gerard Hart is pivotal in steering the company through its current phase, ensuring continued delivery of craveable burgers and signature beverages to guests nationwide. The Acting Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering a strong corporate culture and ensuring financial health, directly impacting the brand's long-term success and market presence.
Mark Graff - Chief Financial Officer
Mark Graff, the Chief Financial Officer at Red Robin, directs the company's financial strategy, planning, and reporting. Graff oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital management, ensuring the financial health and stability of the organization. This critical role involves analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and managing investor relations to support Red Robin's strategic objectives. Mark Graff's expertise is essential in guiding financial decisions that drive profitability and sustainable growth for the casual dining chain. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with the Acting Chief Executive Officer and other leaders to allocate resources effectively and maintain robust financial controls across all operations. Graff's oversight ensures Red Robin meets its financial commitments and capitalizes on market opportunities.
Jesse Griffith - Chief Operating Officer
Jesse Griffith, the Chief Operating Officer at Red Robin, spearheads the operational strategies that ensure seamless execution across all restaurant locations. Griffith manages day-to-day operations, focusing on service excellence, food quality, and maintaining the fun, welcoming environment Red Robin is known for. This role involves optimizing supply chain logistics, implementing operational efficiencies, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards across the more than 540 locations in the United States and Canada. Jesse Griffith's leadership drives the consistent delivery of Red Robin's signature burgers and Bottomless Steak Fries, directly impacting guest satisfaction and repeat business. The Chief Operating Officer also collaborates with other executives to refine operational procedures and support the company's growth initiatives, ensuring every guest enjoys the full Red Robin experience.
Eric Houseman - President & Chief Operating Officer
Eric Houseman, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Red Robin, drives operational excellence and strategic growth across the restaurant brand. Houseman oversees the execution of business strategies, ensuring that all Red Robin locations deliver a consistent and high-quality guest experience. This leadership position involves managing key operational functions, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization. Eric Houseman's responsibilities include enhancing operational efficiency, driving revenue growth, and ensuring the brand's commitment to being the Gourmet Burger Authority is upheld. The President & Chief Operating Officer works collaboratively with the executive team to implement initiatives that support Red Robin's market position and long-term success. Houseman's focus is on operational execution that translates directly into guest satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Travis Davis - Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer
Travis Davis, the Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer at Red Robin, brings a foundational perspective to the company's operational strategies and growth. Davis oversees key aspects of the restaurant chain's operations, ensuring the brand's core values and commitment to quality are maintained. This role involves driving operational efficiencies, managing supply chain dynamics, and upholding the high standards of guest service that define Red Robin. Travis Davis's deep understanding of the brand's origins informs strategies aimed at enhancing the guest experience and fostering a fun, family-friendly environment. The Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer collaborates with the executive team to refine operational processes and support initiatives that strengthen Red Robin's market leadership. Davis's leadership ensures the continued success and evolution of the Gourmet Burger Authority.
Phyllis Mercurio - Chief Operating Officer & Round Robin, Llc Operating Partner
Phyllis Mercurio, the Chief Operating Officer & Round Robin, Llc Operating Partner at Red Robin, directs comprehensive operational strategies and oversees the performance of multiple restaurant locations. Mercurio focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring consistent brand standards, and driving profitability across the Red Robin network. This role involves managing key performance indicators, implementing best practices in service and kitchen operations, and fostering a positive work environment for team members. Phyllis Mercurio's leadership is instrumental in maintaining the high quality of food and service that guests expect from the Gourmet Burger Authority. The Chief Operating Officer & Round Robin, Llc Operating Partner collaborates with the executive team to support strategic initiatives and ensure the seamless execution of daily operations, contributing directly to guest satisfaction and the company's overall success.
Deena DePhilips - Vice Head of Technology, President & Interim Chief Information Officer, 2022-2023)
Deena DePhilips, the Vice Head of Technology, President & Interim Chief Information Officer at Red Robin, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. De Philips oversees the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and support business growth. This role involves managing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data analytics to ensure Red Robin remains competitive in the evolving restaurant landscape. Deena DePhilips's leadership is crucial for integrating technology into all facets of the business, from online ordering and loyalty programs to in-restaurant digital experiences. The Vice Head of Technology ensures that technology investments align with Red Robin's mission and contribute to operational efficiency and guest satisfaction across its extensive network.
Ted Topkof - President
Ted Topkof, the President at Red Robin, drives strategic initiatives and operational oversight across the organization. Topkof focuses on enhancing the company's market position and ensuring the delivery of exceptional guest experiences. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to refine business strategies, optimize operational performance, and foster a culture of innovation and excellence. Ted Topkof's responsibilities include overseeing key business functions that contribute to Red Robin's growth and profitability. The President works to ensure alignment across departments, driving cohesive execution of the company's mission to be the Gourmet Burger Authority. Topkof's leadership supports the ongoing success and expansion of the brand, reinforcing its commitment to quality and guest satisfaction.
Sarah Mussetter - Chief Legal Officer
Sarah Mussetter, the Chief Legal Officer at Red Robin, provides strategic legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the company. Mussetter manages corporate governance, compliance, risk management, and litigation, ensuring Red Robin operates within all legal and regulatory frameworks. This role involves advising the board of directors and executive team on legal implications of business decisions, protecting the company's interests and assets. Sarah Mussetter's expertise is critical in navigating the complex legal landscape of the restaurant industry, supporting Red Robin's commitment to ethical business practices. The Chief Legal Officer ensures that all contracts, policies, and operational procedures adhere to applicable laws, safeguarding the brand's reputation and financial stability. Mussetter's guidance is essential for informed decision-making across the organization.
Humera Kassem - Chief People Officer
Humera Kassem, the Chief People Officer at Red Robin, leads the company's human resources strategy, focusing on talent acquisition, development, and employee engagement. Kassem oversees all aspects of the employee lifecycle, ensuring a positive and productive work environment that supports Red Robin's culture and business objectives. This role involves developing and implementing HR policies, managing compensation and benefits, and fostering diversity and inclusion initiatives across the organization. Humera Kassem's leadership is vital in attracting and retaining the talent necessary to deliver exceptional guest experiences and uphold the brand's reputation as the Gourmet Burger Authority. The Chief People Officer collaborates with leadership to align people strategies with overall business goals, driving employee satisfaction and organizational effectiveness. Kassem's focus is on building a strong, engaged workforce.
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