Bloomin' Brands Announces C-Suite Shuffling As Former CEO Elizabeth Smith Steps Down

“Bloomin’ Brands has announced a reshuffling of its executive suite, resulting in the removal of Elizabeth Smith as chief executive officer,” according to an article on SkiftTable.

Bloomin’ Brands restaurant group owns Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar.

“In an SEC filing submitted Friday morning” the company announced that CEO Elizabeth Smith is stepping down and “will will transition to a new role as executive chairman of the company’s board effective April 1.” Smith joined the company in 2009 and grew the company “to 1,500 restaurant locations in 48 U.S. states and 20 countries. She has also championed multiple digital initiatives, such as an emphasis on delivery for Outback and Carraba’s Italian grill, Bloomin’s Brands’ larger chains,” the article said.

According to the article, “Bloomin’ Brands current Chief Financial Officer David Deno will become its new CEO, according to the filing,” and “Group Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis Christopher Meyer will assume Deno’s vacated role.” The transition is interestingly timed, as the restaurant group “is set to host its annual investor day on March 11,” per the article.