News

Justin Timberlake's fast casual brand names new CEO

August 22, 2016

Carve Barbecue has named James J. Fenlason as its CEO and CFO, according to a company press release.

Fenlason has served as a board member and co-chairman of Carve, which is owned by the Justin Timberlake-backed Southern Hospitality Restaurant and Bar, since 2004. He will continue to serve in that position as CEO. Mitchell Roth has resigned as CEO to pursue other business interests and will remain on the board of the company, according to the release.

"I can think of no one better suited to lead Southern Concepts Restaurant Group forward with stability, profitability, and growth than Jim," said Roth. "His counsel has been invaluable during his time on the board and his knowledge of the company will make the transition seamless and his impact immediate."

Heather Atkinson has resigned as CFO and director of Southern Concepts Restaurant Group but will remain with the company in the position of controller through a transition period, according to the release.

"I look forward to introducing our great food to even more people in each of our restaurants," Fenlason said. "We will be focused on our customer experience and maximizing results for our shareholders. Much of what I learned about the restaurant business I learned from my mother who served her customers in the same restaurant for over 30 years. She had many who were so loyal that she would actually order for them when they walked through the door.  My experience started with bussing tables when I was in high school and now culminates with this chance to build a great restaurant company. I think Mom would be proud."

Fenlason’s background includes being in C-level business management, directorships and entrepreneurial ventures ranging from Hospitality, Banking, Auto, Construction, Retail and Manufacturing with an emphasis in the areas of marketing and accounting. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Liberty University.