Red Lobster names new finance, marketing chiefs
After recently emerging from bankruptcy with new ownership, Red Lobster is adding to its C-suite with two appointments.
The seafood chain, now under the ownership of RL Investor Holdings LLC, has appointed Bob Baker as its chief financial officer and Nichole Robillard as chief marketing officer. Both will report to Red Lobster CEO Damola Adamolekun, who served as CEO of PF Chang’s from 2019 to 2023.
[READ MORE: Red Lobster exits bankruptcy new owners, new CEO]
Baker's career spans more than 30 years, with leadership roles across major restaurant brands. Most recently, he served as CFO at A Plus Tree, Inc., and previously served as CFO of Checkers & Rally's from 2018 to 2022 and at Benihana from 2015 to 2018. Prior to that, Baker held the dual roles of president and CFO at Cafe Rio Mexican Grill, where he led the brand's expansion from six to over 70 locations. Earlier in his career, he spent 16 years at Yum! Brands in a variety of roles.
"Bob brings not only deep financial expertise but also a passion for restaurant operations," said Adamolekun. "His wealth of experience gained across the restaurant industry, combined with his hands-on approach, will be invaluable as we continue to position Red Lobster for long-term growth. Bob thrives on the teamwork required to build and grow great restaurant companies, and I am excited to welcome him to the Red Lobster family."
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Bob Baker -
Nichole Robillard
As chief marketing officer, Robillard will oversee the company's marketing, communications and culinary teams. With over 20 years of experience, she most recently led barbecue chain Smokey Bones through a rebranding and transformation period as chief marketing officer, serving in the role since March of 2022. Robillard’s previous experience includes time at various marketing and advertising firms.
"Nichole's ability to blend creative vision with operational expertise makes her the perfect leader for this role," said Adamolekun. "As we look to reconnect with longtime guests and reach new audiences, Nichole's leadership will help us remind the world what they love about Red Lobster and invite them to experience it again. I am confident that with her guidance, we will achieve these goals and strengthen our position in the industry."
Headquartered in Orlando, Red Lobster operates 544 locations across 44 U.S. states and four Canadian provinces as of Sept. 16.
