Beth Scott, president of Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, was chosen for the NRN Power List by Bloomin’ Brands CEO David Deno for her efforts to quickly pivot the fine-dining brand to an off-premise model during the pandemic. Here’s what else Deno had to say:
Beth Scott hit the ground running when she joined Bloomin’ Brands as president of Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar just three years ago and has never looked back. Her experiential vision and operations expertise, coupled with marketing acumen, quickly strengthened the brand operating in the competitive fine-dining segment. Her influence goes beyond just the Fleming’s brand. Beth has a keen eye for cutting-edge solutions, and in recognition of her leadership capacity, Beth has taken on additional responsibility leading operations in Brazil, the research and development area and the innovation team companywide. Beth’s impact on Bloomin’ Brands is just beginning — the sky is the limit, and I can’t wait to see where else she helps us fly.
Nation’s Restaurant News talked with Beth Scott about how empowering and trusting teams leads to more effective — and faster — decision making . Here’s what she had to say:
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned during this chaotic year?
I have been most amazed and proud of how quickly our teams can get things done if we remove the typical barriers to agile decision making. The Fleming’s team shifted from an on-premise-only business to a robust off premise business to include on-line ordering and third-party delivery. The challenge now is to keep that mindset moving forward.
What are you most proud of in terms of company leadership and community impact as you look back at the challenges of 2020?
Fleming’s did not furlough anyone during the pandemic and, in fact, created and implemented a “relief pay” program that provided short-term relief for our associates in need of disposable income. Additionally, we created a “Sunday Supper” program. where all our associates could take a meal home to enjoy with their family. Many of our restaurant teams also worked tirelessly to deliver meals to first responders, hospital workers and provide food for organizations delivering meals to the elderly.
What does leadership and impact mean to you?
Leaders today must work to inspire and influence not command. This starts with building trust so that your teams feel truly empowered and supported. Leaders must foster collaborative environments where all feel safe to bring their strengths and limitations to the team. This will drive the biggest impact as it allows teams to rally around a common purpose.
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