Restaurant Associates Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Restaurant Associates has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and market expansion.

Driven by a commitment to exceptional hospitality, Restaurant Associates delivers premier on-site dining management across corporate, cultural, and educational sectors, shaping memorable guest experiences.

Leadership Roles at Restaurant Associates

  • Chief Executive Officer - Edward Brown
  • Chief Financial Officer - Sarah Calhoun
  • Group Chief Financial Officer - Andrew Williams
  • Chief Operating Officer - Anthony Buccieri
  • President, Managed Services - James Russo
  • President - Eduardo Benitez
  • President - Janet Lowder
  • Team Captain - Mohamed Ibrahim
  • Edward Brown - Chief Executive Officer

    Edward Brown, the Chief Executive Officer at Restaurant Associates, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for the company's on-site dining management services. Brown guides the organization's expansion across metro New York City, Washington DC, Boston, and Atlanta, ensuring alignment with Compass Group's global standards. This leadership role involves cultivating key client relationships and driving innovation in hospitality services offered at corporate workplaces, cultural centers, and professional schools. By focusing on service excellence and operational efficiency, Edward Brown ensures Restaurant Associates maintains its position as a leader in the food service industry. The Chief Executive Officer's vision shapes the company's market approach and long-term growth trajectory, emphasizing a dedication to delivering superior dining experiences and managing complex catering events with precision.

    Sarah Calhoun - Chief Financial Officer

    Sarah Calhoun, the Chief Financial Officer at Restaurant Associates, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Calhoun oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal management across the organization's diverse service sectors. This position involves analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and supporting strategic investment decisions to drive profitability and sustainable growth. Sarah Calhoun plays a key part in financial compliance and risk management, safeguarding the company's assets and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in guiding Restaurant Associates' financial strategy, supporting its expansion initiatives, and maintaining strong relationships with financial stakeholders.
    Sarah Calhoun

    Andrew Williams - Group Chief Financial Officer

    Andrew Williams, the Group Chief Financial Officer at Restaurant Associates, directs the financial strategy and oversight for the broader group, including its integration with Compass Group. Williams is responsible for the consolidated financial performance, capital allocation, and long-term financial planning that supports Restaurant Associates' strategic objectives. This role involves close collaboration with divisional finance leaders to ensure consistent financial discipline and reporting across all operating regions, including metro New York City, Washington DC, Boston, and Atlanta. Andrew Williams drives financial initiatives that enhance shareholder value and operational efficiency, while also managing investor relations and financial communications. The Group Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures financial integrity and strategic alignment across the entire organization.

    Anthony Buccieri - Chief Operating Officer

    Anthony Buccieri, the Chief Operating Officer at Restaurant Associates, oversees the day-to-day operational execution of dining services across all managed locations. Buccieri ensures seamless service delivery in corporate environments, cultural institutions, and educational facilities throughout the New York City, Washington DC, Boston, and Atlanta regions. This critical role involves optimizing operational workflows, managing supply chain logistics, and maintaining rigorous quality control standards to uphold the company's reputation for excellence. Anthony Buccieri drives efficiency improvements and implements best practices in food preparation, service, and client satisfaction. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on enhancing the guest experience and ensuring the profitability and scalability of Restaurant Associates' diverse portfolio of on-site dining operations.

    James Russo - President, Managed Services

    James Russo, the President, Managed Services at Restaurant Associates, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the company's core managed dining services. Russo focuses on enhancing client partnerships and expanding service offerings within corporate workplaces and cultural venues across key metropolitan areas. This leadership position involves driving service innovation, ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction, and optimizing the delivery of culinary and hospitality solutions. James Russo oversees the teams responsible for day-to-day operations, client retention, and the development of new managed service contracts. The President, Managed Services' commitment to excellence shapes the client experience and reinforces Restaurant Associates' reputation for delivering high-quality, customized dining programs.
    James Russo

    Eduardo Benitez - President

    Eduardo Benitez, the President at Restaurant Associates, drives strategic initiatives and operational oversight for key segments of the company's dining management business. Benitez focuses on enhancing service delivery and expanding market presence within the corporate and cultural sectors across major U.S. cities. This leadership role involves fostering strong client relationships, championing service excellence, and guiding teams to achieve operational and financial targets. Eduardo Benitez oversees the development and implementation of innovative hospitality solutions designed to meet evolving client needs. The President's strategic vision and commitment to quality ensure Restaurant Associates continues to deliver exceptional dining experiences and maintain its leadership position in the industry.

    Janet Lowder - President

    Janet Lowder, the President at Restaurant Associates, directs strategic growth and operational excellence across specific business units, focusing on enhancing client partnerships and service innovation. Lowder oversees the delivery of comprehensive dining management solutions for corporate clients, cultural institutions, and educational facilities, ensuring consistent quality and client satisfaction. This position involves leading teams to achieve ambitious performance goals, optimizing operational efficiencies, and identifying new opportunities for service expansion. Janet Lowder champions a culture of hospitality and service excellence, driving initiatives that elevate the guest experience. The President's leadership ensures Restaurant Associates remains at the forefront of the on-site dining management industry.

    Mohamed Ibrahim - Team Captain

    Mohamed Ibrahim, the Team Captain at Restaurant Associates, provides direct on-site leadership and operational support for dining services. Ibrahim ensures the efficient execution of daily tasks, manages service flow, and mentors team members to uphold Restaurant Associates' high standards of hospitality. This role involves direct supervision of front-line staff, coordination of service delivery during events, and maintaining a positive and productive work environment. Mohamed Ibrahim plays a crucial part in ensuring guest satisfaction through attentive service and adherence to operational protocols. The Team Captain's hands-on approach contributes significantly to the smooth functioning of dining operations and the overall success of client engagements.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Restaurant Associates Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Restaurant Associates?
    Restaurant Associates is led by Edward Brown (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sarah Calhoun (Chief Financial Officer) and Andrew Williams (Group Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Restaurant Associates’s executive team?
    The executive team of Restaurant Associates includes leaders such as Edward Brown (Chief Executive Officer), Sarah Calhoun (Chief Financial Officer), Andrew Williams (Group Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Restaurant Associates have?
    Restaurant Associates has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Restaurant Associates’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Restaurant Associates includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Group Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Managed Services.