News

Carin Stutz leaves McAlister's for Red Robin

May 3, 2016

Carin Stutz has traded her role as president of McAlister's Deli to serve as EVP and chief operating officer at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, according to a company press release. 

She will be responsible for leading regional restaurant management teams overseeing the operational performance of more than 440 company-owned U.S. and Canadian Red Robin restaurants and 11 Red Robin Burger Works locations in the U.S., as well as additional alternative platforms and all franchise operations. 

"Carin is a proven leader in driving operational excellence, business results and profitability in the highly competitive fast casual and casual dining industry," said Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews President Denny Marie Post. "We are excited to have Carin on our Red Robin team, where her extensive restaurant and new concept development experience, combined with her leadership talents, will be essential as we continue building an organization focused on engaging our restaurant teams, creating memorable guest experiences and driving superior results."

Stutz has more than three decades of experience in the restaurant industry. Most recently, she was president of McAlister's Deli, operated by Focus Brands, and has served in operations leadership roles for major casual dining and fast casual brands including Chili's, Applebee's, Cosi and Wendy's.

Paul Damico, FOCUS Brands President of North America, said in an email to FastCasula.com, that he is focused on finding a replacement for Stutz, but in the interim will be actively involved in the brand's day-to-day operations.