MINNEAPOLIS Carlson, the parent company of the T.G.I. Friday’s and Pick Up Stix restaurant brands, said Tuesday that Hubert Joly would become president and chief executive on March 1. He succeeds Marilyn Carlson Nelson, who will remain Carlson’s chairman.
Joly, 48, has been president and chief executive of Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the conglomerate's travel-agent business, since July 2004. Previously, he was executive vice president for Vivendi Universal's U.S. division and chief executive of the Vivendi Universal Games in Los Angeles.
"I am impressed with the Carlson legacy -- its portfolio of brands, its values, its culture and its growth opportunities," Joly said in a statement. "I look forward to working with Marilyn and the board on seizing these opportunities. Leading this great family-owned company will be a distinct privilege."
Friday's and Pick Up Stix constitute Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, based in Carrollton, Texas, and headed by chief executive Richard Sneed. Carlson's other holdings include Radisson Hotels & Resorts, Regent Hotels & Resorts and four other lodging brands.
The company recently sold its cruise-ship business.
Carlson owns, operates or franchises 1,000 restaurants and nearly 1,000 hotels. The company also is involved in travel management.