Brinker International Inc. has named Kelly Baltes, left, as executive vice president and president of Maggiano's Little Italy, the company said Tuesday.
Baltes fills a position held until last year by Steve Provost, who became Chili's chief marketing officer.
Baltes has held leadership positions in such concepts as Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Red Lobster and Olive Garden.
"I'm excited for Kelly to join our team,” said Wyman Roberts, Brinker CEO and president, in a statement, “because his experience and leadership style will be instrumental in the strategic thinking around how we continue to differentiate and perfect the guest experience at Maggiano's.”
"It is an honor for me to join the incredible Maggiano's family,” Baltes said. “I have been a longtime admirer and guest of Maggiano's and have a great deal of respect for the culture, hospitality and made-from-scratch Italian-American cuisine.”
Baltes was named a Nation’s Restaurant News Golden Chain honoree in 2013.
As of March 28, Brinker owned 52 Maggiano’s units as well as operating and franchising 1,634 Chili’s Grill & Bar restaurants.
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