BJ’s gives Deitchle additional job of chairmanBJ’s gives Deitchle additional job of chairman

HUNTINGTON BEACH Calif. BJ’s Restaurants Inc. has assigned president and chief executive Gerald W. “Jerry” Deitchle the additional responsibilities of chairman, the casual-dining operator announced Wednesday after its shareholder meeting.

Deitchle assumes the duties from company co-founders Paul Motenko and Jerry Hennessy, who split the post as co-chairmen. The two remain on BJ’s board.

In making the announcement, the company noted that Peter A. Bassi is the board’s “lead independent director.” Bassi is the former chairman and president of Yum! Restaurants International, the overseas arm of Taco Bell parent Yum! Brands Inc.

With the expansion of Deitchle’s duties, the former The Cheesecake Factory president becomes the latest in a growing number of industry CEOs to add the board chairmanship to their responsibilities. Burger King Holdings Inc. recently awarded that additional title to CEO John Chidsey.

Heightened shareholder activism at the beginning of the decade had prompted many corporations to split the chairman and CEO posts, citing concerns about governance and accountability.

BJ’s operates 71 casual-dining restaurants under the names BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery, BJ’s Pizza & Grill and BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse.