executive change

Leadership

Patrick Grismer is retiring as Starbucks CFO

Rachel Ruggeri will take over as the coffee giant’s finance chief on Feb. 1.

Leadership

Inspire Brands hires Michael Haley as international president

The veteran of Pret a Manger and Starbucks will build on the overseasl base provided by Inspire’s purchase of Dunkn’ Brands.

Big-name players are realigning top management to provide more flexibility and give additional attention to new revenue streams.

The former National Restaurant Association chief will be part of the consultancy’s restaurant and association practices.

Allison Hall will assume his duties on an interim basis as of Jan. 22.

Rick Cardenas will move up to president and COO of Darden Restaurants while Raj Vennam will become CFO.

Melissa Smith was named chief people officer for Focus; Kendall Ware was named chief brand officer of Carvel and Cinnabon; and Alisa Gmelich was named chief brand officer for Auntie Anne’s.

Randy DeWitt has been succeeded as CEO by Jack Gibbons, and the company has been recast into a venture called FB Society

He assumes the job from CEO Kent Taylor, who said the move will free him to focus on new business endeavors for the company.

The former chief of Olive Garden, LongHorn and Capital Grille has been instrumental in the casual-dining giant's success.

  • Page 33