• by Teresa Buyikian , September 22, 2023

Today Red Lobster announced that it named Horace Dawson chief executive officer and a member of the company’s board.

Dawson, a 30-year restaurant industry veteran, had served as executive vice president and general counsel for Orlando, Florida-based Red Lobster since 2014, where he headed legal and was responsible for communications, risk management and government relations.

“This is an important time for our brand. We are continuing to evolve our menu and guest experience to give our guests more of what they want every time they visit one of our restaurants," said Dawson in a release.

Dawson has also worked as vice president and division general counsel for Darden Restaurants, Inc., as well as vice president of business affairs and general counsel of Hard Rock Cafe International.         

Earlier in his career, Dawson practiced in the entertainment, securities, corporate and communications areas for Telemundo Network, and several New York law firms, along with operating his own private practice.

In addition to Dawson's hire, Paul Kenny was also appointed Red Lobster's chairman of the board.  With over 50 years of food industry experience, Kenny has also served as chief executive officer and executive advisor of the Minor Food Group and served as a director on the board of Minor International.         

The new appointments follow on the heels of last week’s announcement of Red Lobster’s “Scratch and Sea” limited time instant win promotion through Oct. 29. Customers of the casual dining chain will receive a scratch-off card in-store, with rewards ranging from Ultimate Endless Shrimp for a year to various permutations of e-gift cards to a coupon for 10% off a $30 minimum purchase for a future visit.