Here’s to Red Lobster’s new beginnings. 🍻 [Editor’s Note: Well, maybe not.]
You soon might experience a transformed dining experience the next time you visit Red Lobster.
Early this month, the restaurant chain announced the appointment of industry veteran Larry Konecny as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). The former Maggiano’s executive is tasked with improving food quality, customer service, operations, and corporate culture.
Konecny will lead the operational strategy for Red Lobster’s 545 restaurants across the United States and Canada, and will report directly to CEO Damola Adamolekun, who was also newly installed last September.
“As Red Lobster advances on its comeback journey, having a world-class operations leader is essential. Larry’s impressive track record and authentic leadership style make him the perfect fit for this role,” Adamolekun said.
In his previous roles as COO and CCO, Konecny oversaw operations at Maggiano’s Little Italy, where he led the brand through a period of sales and profit growth. As Vice President of Innovation & Restaurant Support, Konecny also led a menu transformation, revitalized lunch traffic, and leveraged the brand’s story to drive growth in key categories.
“I am honored to join Red Lobster at such an important moment in its history,” said Konecny.
In addition to his professional achievements, Konecny is committed to community service. He currently serves on the Dean’s Advisory Board for the University of Houston Hilton School of Hospitality and is a board member of the Foundation for Lovejoy Schools.