Susan Connelly

Susan Connelly is the SVP, Communications & Corporate Affairs at Darden Restaurants. Susan has extensive experience in government relations and has worked with some of the biggest names in the food industry.

Connelly started their career in government relations with the Grocery Manufacturers Association in 2001. Susan quickly rose through the ranks and was promoted to Director of State Affairs in 2006. In this role, they were responsible for developing and implementing strategic policy initiatives for the association. Susan also managed relationships with key industry stakeholders and political consultants in 21 states.

In 2006, Connelly left the Grocery Manufacturers Association to join McDonald's USA as their Government Relations Manager. In this role, they oversaw the operation of the divisional government relations initiative for McDonald's. This included strategic planning, advocacy, and development and management of budget. Connelly was also responsible for maintaining communication pathways with operator leadership and senior management on all matters relating to state legislation and public policy interests affecting the company.

After a year at McDonald's, Connelly joined Darden Restaurants as their SVP, Communications & Corporate Affairs in 2007. In this role, they are responsible for the company's communications strategy and execution. Susan also leads the corporate affairs function, which includes government affairs, public policy, community relations, and philanthropy.

The educational career for Susan Connelly includes an MBA in Finance and General from Suffolk University - Sawyer Business School as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature/Letters from Saint Anselm College.

Some of their coworkers include Doug Milanes - SVP, Chief Supply Chain Officer, John Madonna - SVP, Corporate Controller, and Matt Broad - SVP, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary. Susan Connelly reports to Rick Cardenas, President & CEO.