Darden Restaurants Inc. has appointed Jim Lawrence as its chief supply chain officer, succeeding Barry Moullet, who is stepping down after 16 years with the company.
Lawrence will be responsible for sourcing, distribution and quality assurance, and report to Darden president and chief operating officer Drew Madsen.
"Jim has played a vital role in our supply chain's evolution and he is the perfect person to lead our efforts moving forward. With his leadership and knowledge of the business, Jim will ensure the team is continually enhancing our supply chain capabilities so that it remains a competitive advantage for Darden," Madsen said in a statement.
Darden’s supply chain team manages more than $3 billion in capital and food product expenditures annually.
Lawrence joined Darden in 1995, and has held positions in transportation, seafood inventory management and distribution, and restaurant distribution services. He was named vice president of supply management in 2000 and a senior vice president in 2005, leading Darden’s supply management and food purchasing teams.
Before working at Darden, Lawrence held sales and distribution positions at Mobil Corporation and RJR Nabisco Inc.
RELATED:
• Restaurant workers group drops discrimination charges against Darden
• Darden: Consumer sentiment still choppy
• Darden begins multimillion-dollar tech overhaul
• Darden predicts strong 3Q, Olive Garden rebound
Moullet, who joined Darden in 1996 and was named chief supply chain officer in 2003, is stepping down from his position.
"As I transition to new opportunities in academia and consulting following some time with family this summer, I am confident that Darden's supply chain organization is in good hands under Jim's leadership," Moullet said.
"Barry has made immeasurable contributions to Darden by helping in the build out of our supply chain that provides significant competitive advantage," Madsen said. "We are thankful for his service and wish him well in this new stage of his life."
Orlando, Fla.-based Darden Restaurants Inc. owns and operates more than 1,900 casual-dining restaurants, including the Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse and Seasons 52 chains.
Contact Marcella Veneziale at [email protected].