SPB Hospitality, the owner of Krystal, Logan’s Roadhouse and other brands, has named industry veteran G.J. Hart as its new CEO and chairman.
Hart was most recently CEO of Red Robin for two and a half years and has also been CEO of Torchy’s Tacos, California Pizza Kitchen and Texas Roadhouse. He’s also an operating partner with SPB owner Fortress Investment Group.
He replaces Josh Kern, who is stepping down to take another role in the restaurant industry. Kern had been with SPB for nearly seven years, including the past two and a half as CEO.
Hart takes the reins at Houston-based SPB at a pivotal moment for the company. It has spent the past several years reshaping its portfolio, selling off Old Chicago Pizza and a group of brewery concepts and acquiring a pair of Jose Garces restaurants to pair with Krystal, Logan’s and the upscale J. Alexander’s and Stoney River.
It now has a total of eight concepts spanning more than 450 locations.
“I am honored to join SPB Hospitality at such an important time,” Hart said in a statement. “This is a company with a diverse and iconic portfolio of brands, a talented team, and a strong foundation. I look forward to working closely with the board, leadership team, and operators to build on the momentum already in place and lead SPB into its next chapter.”
In a statement, SPB board member and Fortress Managing Director Morgan McClure called Hart “a proven leader with a deep understanding of the restaurant business and a strong track record of success.”
McClure said Hart’s experience will help SPB on its path toward continued growth. He also thanked Kern for his years of leadership.
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