SPB Hospitality, a leading owner and operator of quick-service, casual and fine-dining restaurants, has hired industry veteran Andy Somers as vice president of operations over their Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom and Brewery divisions, the company announced.

Somers brings more than two decades of experience in the restaurant industry, most recently serving as senior director of operations at P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. His extensive career spans from hands-on management roles to high-level corporate positions, showcasing his deep understanding of the industry’s dynamics and his ability to navigate its unique challenges, SPB Hospitality said.

“We could not be more excited to welcome Andy to SPB,” said CEO of SPB Hospitality Josh Kern. “Andy’s impressive track record and people-centric leadership style align seamlessly with our commitment to ‘Serve People Better.’ His proven ability to drive operational excellence and his passion for developing strong, motivated teams will be instrumental in elevating the Old Chicago and Brewery brands. We are confident that Andy’s strategic vision will lead to continued growth and success.”

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Throughout his career, Somers has “consistently demonstrated a commitment to nurturing talent and building strong, motivated teams,” according to a press release. “His leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, innovation and a deep respect for the people he works with, making him an ideal fit for SPB’s mission to put people at the heart of everything they do.”

SPB Hospitality’s portfolio of restaurant brands includes Logan’s Roadhouse, Krystal Restaurants, Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom, and a collection of high-end restaurant brands such as J. Alexander’s and Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill. Its craft brewery restaurant brands include Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, ChopHouse & Brewery, Big River Grille & Brewing Works, AIA Ale Works Restaurant & Taproom, Ragtime Tavern Seafood & Grill, and Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery.

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