A. William Allen

From 2005 to 2009, Mr. Allen was the CEO of Bloomin' Brands (and served as Chairman of its Board from 2009 to 2011). Mr. Allen managed Bloomin' Brands' $3.9 billion take-private successful initiative in 2007, sponsored by private equity firms L Catterton and Bain Capital, which occurred during his tenure. In 1998, Mr. Allen led the development of Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, which he co-founded with famed restauranteur Paul Fleming, the co-founder of the P.F. Chang's restaurant group. Messrs. Allen and Fleming later sold the company to Bloomin' Brands for a majority stake in 2004. Mr. Allen was the President and CEO of La Madeleine French Bakery and Café before co-founding the highly successful Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar brand. Mr. Allen started his career working for The Marriott Corporation and Restaurant Enterprises Group, has extensive hospitality-related experience, and is considered to one of the most respected figures in the hospitality industry. Mr. Allen is a value-added investor, advisor, and board member for several developed and early-stage growth food service companies.