News

Mimi's Café announces three executive promotions

August 15, 2013

As part of its rebranding and rebuilding initiative, Mimi's Cafe has announced the promotion of three executive-level operations leaders.

Effective immediately, Stuart Gee will assume the position of vice president of operations. Most recently Gee held the position of central regional director of operations. Additionally, Mike Foster and John Shackelford have been promoted to western region vice president of operations and eastern region vice president of operations, respectively.

Gee, Foster and Shackelford bring more than 80 combined years of industry experience.

"One of the key philosophies within Le Duff America, Mimi's Cafe parent company, is the cultivation of extraordinary teams within each of our brands. Accordingly, I am very pleased to announce these notable promotions," said Phil Costner, president of Mimi's Cafe. "Stuart, Mike and John have demonstrated unparalleled dedication and commitment to the Mimi's brand. I'm confident that, led by Stuart, this dynamic leadership team will drive a contagious energy that in turn will drive a tenacious focus on results and deep understanding of the brand within all of our associates."

Prior to joining Mimi's, Gee served as the vice president of central operations for T.G.I. Fridays where he revamped training methodologies and led cuts of overhead expenses.

Foster's past experience includes executive leadership roles with Elephant Bar Global Grill/Wok Kitchen, Baja Fresh Mexican Grill, Chevy's Fresh Mex and Paragon Restaurants.

Shackelford's prior experience includes a long career at Bob Evans before joining Mimi's in 2011 as a region coach. Foster and Shackelford will report directly to Gee.

Read more about operations management.