Ruth’s Hospitality names new presidentRuth’s Hospitality names new president

Ruth’s Hospitality Group Inc. has promoted Cheryl J. Henry to president and chief operating officer, the company said late Monday.

Henry succeeds Michael P. O’Donnell, who will continue as chairman and CEO of the Winter Park, Fla.-based steakhouse chain.

Henry, who most recently served as Ruth’s chief branding officer and senior vice president, joined the company in 2007.

In every challenge Cheryl has undertaken, she’s created great success and demonstrated the leadership skills essential to her new and expanded role,” O’Donnell said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing my work with Cheryl, our outstanding and long-tenured leadership team, as well as our franchise community, as we continue to grow the brand of Ruth’s Chris Steak House.”

Prior to joining Ruth’s Hospitality, Henry served as chief of staff for the mayor of Orlando, Fla. She was instrumental in developing $1.2 billion in downtown entertainment venues, including the city’s performing arts center and arena.

In her new position, Henry’s responsibilities will expand to human resources and information technology, in addition to culinary, beverage, brand marketing and real estate development. She will work with Kevin Toomy, an eight-year veteran of Ruth’s and the company’s chief operating officer.

Nancy Oswald, co-owner of Ruth’s largest franchise group, said, “We are thrilled that the board has recognized Cheryl's outstanding leadership and commitment to the brand and advanced her into the president role. I look forward to continuing our partnership and am confident that our founder, Ruth Fertel, would applaud this move.”

Ruth’s Hospitality has more than the 145 steakhouses worldwide.

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