Carlson taps new leaders for T.G.I. Friday'sCarlson taps new leaders for T.G.I. Friday's

CARROLLTON Texas Carlson Restaurants Worldwide has named John Neitzel president and chief operating officer of T.G.I. Friday’s USA. The company also appointed Ricky Richardson as executive vice president and chief operating officer of T.G.I. Friday’s International.

Neitzel, who most recently was president and COO of Friday’s International, will be responsible for operations at the more than 600 domestic company and franchised restaurants.

Richardson, who had been managing director of T.G.I. Friday’s U.K., will oversee the brand's 310 restaurants abroad.

Both Neitzel and Richardson will report to the president and CEO of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide.

Richard Snead, the current president and chief of Carlson Restaurants, remains on a health-related leave of absence that began in mid-September. According to a spokeswoman, Snead is doing well but she was unable to confirm when he will be returning to the company. Jeff Balagna, a Carlson Hospitality executive vice president, is serving as interim chief executive.