Gene Lee plans to retire as chairman of Darden Restaurants following the company’s annual meeting in September, the company announced on Thursday.
The retirement comes one year after Lee retired as CEO of the parent company of Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse and, as of this month, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.
The Orlando-based Darden did not say who would replace Lee as chair of its board of directors. Rick Cardenas took over as CEO of Darden last year.
“Serving as Darden’s CEO and as a member and chairman of the board of directors has been an honor, Lee said in a statement. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and believe Darden is well-positioned to continue to grow and prosper for years to come.”
It will be the first time Lee has not been part of Darden Restaurants since 2007, when it acquired Rare Hospitality, the multi-brand operation where he served as president. Lee was named president of Darden's specialty restaurants division.
He was named CEO in 2015 following the departure of Clarence Otis and was named chairman of Darden in 2021.
His tenure has been particularly active. As CEO, Lee took over following the sale of Red Lobster. The company then acquired the Cheddar’s chain and, more recently, Ruth’s. Cardenas called Lee “an extraordinary leader” who has been “a source of support and counsel during the past year.”
“His impact on Darden and the restaurant industry cannot be overstated,” Cardenas added in a statement.
Darden operates several chains including Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Eddie V’s and Bahama Breeze.
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