Bloomin’ Brands promotes Sheilina Henry to diversity roleBloomin’ Brands promotes Sheilina Henry to diversity role

Bloomin’ Brands Inc. has promoted Sheilina Henry to the new position of group vice president for diversity and inclusion as the Outback Steakhouse parent focuses efforts in leadership, talent, training and education, the company said Thursday.

The Tampa, Fla.-based company, which owns other casual-dining brands, said Henry will lead Bloomin’ Brands diversity and inclusion council, which advises short- and long-term strategies to advance diversity, equality and inclusion among employees, customers, suppliers and communities.

Henry, left, has more than two decades of experience in restaurant operations, training and project management and most recently served as a regional vice president.

She joined Bloomin’ Brands in 2012 as an Outback Steakhouse joint venture partner. She was promoted to vice president for training and development in 2016 and to regional vice president in 2019. Prior to joining Bloomin’ Brands, she worked in operations and training at Yum! Brands.

“This is an important part of our culture and the new role enhances our commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion,” said David Deno, Bloomin Brands’ CEO, in a statement. “Sheilina is a talented, passionate and respected leader with extensive operations experience who will guide our efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve at all levels within our company.”

Related:Outback Steakhouse parent Bloomin’ Brands says no layoffs helped brand sales bounce back

Henry added, “Having experienced gender and racial bias throughout my life, I am proud of the steps Bloomin’ Brands is taking to create a culture that is more diverse and inclusive.”

Bloomin’ Brands has more than 1,450 restaurants in 48 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and 20 countries. In addition to Outback, its brands include Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and the new fast-casual Aussie Grill by Outback.

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