Red Robin CEO G.J. Hart to step down, David Pace to succeed

Red Robin (RRGB) announced that G.J. Hart will step down as President and CEO. After five-and-a-half years with the company and the successful implementation of measures to elevate the guest experience and transform Red Robin into an operations-focused restaurant company, Hart will now transition to serving the industry through his various board commitments and mentoring the next generation of industry leaders. David Pace, who currently serves as Chairman of the Board, will succeed Hart as President and CEO, effective immediately. Pace is a seasoned industry leader who will be focused on leading the company through the next phase of its transformation. Hart will serve in an advisory capacity through September of this year to support a smooth transition. In connection with this transition, Anthony Ackil, who currently serves as a Director on the Board, will succeed Pace as Chairman, also effective immediately. Pace will remain a member of the Board.