Smith joined Buffalo Wild Wings as chief financial officer in 1994 and was appointed ceo in 1996. At that time, the company had less than 75 restaurants. Under her watch, it has grown to nearly 600 locations across 40 states. During that time, Smith also developed the company’s infrastructure, creating comprehensive finance, marketing and human resources departments, and aligned the franchise system so that all Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants represented a consistent brand focused on creating a unique guest experience. Her commitment to Buffalo Wild Wing’s success continues to provide shareholder value, and for the first time last year the company achieved over $1 billion in sales.
Smith has been a board member of the National Restaurant Association since 1996 and currently serves as treasurer. She was recently named one of the “Top 40 to Watch” by Finance & Commerce magazine.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.