Promotions and hires continue at Black Bear Diner, the family dining brand based in Redding, Calif. Today, the brand announced that Anita Adams had been promoted from president to CEO. Black Bear also announced that restaurant veteran Jeff Guido would join the brand as chief operating officer. Bruce Dean, the brand’s co-founder and CEO, will remain with the company as executive chairman.
“We have grown this brand larger than I ever would have anticipated and hoped for, and there is much more to come," said Dean in a statement. “My focus is now on perpetuating the next 25 years and ensuring we continue to prosper, grow and be the leader in family dining. Succession planning is paramount to ensure our long-term success, and to that end, I will be assuming the executive chairman position.”
Anita Adams, left, joined Black Bear Diner in March 2017 as chief financial officer; she added president to her title in April of 2019. In October Steve Sparks joined the brand and took over as CFO.
“Black Bear Diner has enjoyed an amazing 25 years, and I am proud to assume the CEO role of such a well-respected brand,” said Adams in the statement. “Our efforts have been focused on building a scalable foundation to support our aggressive growth strategy while ensuring we stay true to the brand’s heritage of hospitality, quality and operational excellence. I look forward to partnering with our franchise community, team leaders and shareholders to position the brand for continued prosperity.”
Guido joins Black Bear Diner as COO by way of ABRH, which owns Village Inn and Baker’s Square among other brands. He held the position of president for the Family Restaurant Division.
“Bruce has shown that family dining, when done right and with authenticity, is here to stay,” said Adams in the statement. “Over the last several years, I’ve highly valued Bruce’s leadership and partnership, and will continue to benefit from his experience and passion.”
Black Bear has 138 locations in 14 states.
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