Steve Carley

Steve Carley served as Chief Executive Officer of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers from 2010 to 2016 where he was responsible for all aspects of leading the $1+ billion chain of casual dining restaurants through a brand revitalization effort, including the recruiting and guiding of a new senior management team. Mr. Carley drove growth through the introduction of value and premium offerings, supply chain and other operational efficiencies, and a leading consumer loyalty program, among other initiatives.

Prior to Red Robin, Mr. Carley was CEO of El Pollo Loco, a quick-service restaurant chain specializing in marinated, flame-broiled chicken, from 2001 to 2010. He oversaw more than 400 El Pollo Loco restaurants operating in 11 states, while driving comprehensive brand research initiatives, addressing challenges from competitor products, and rebuilding franchisee trust and confidence in the company. Previously, Mr. Carley was President and CEO at JoePix/PhotoPoint, a B2C digital photography start-up; President and COO of Universal Hollywood Studios; National Vice President, Development at Taco Bell; President and CEO of Fair Lanes, an independent operator of bowling and entertainment centers in the U.S.; and Director of Operations – Arabian Gulf for PepsiCo, among other roles at The Pillsbury Company and General Mills.

Mr. Carley currently serves on the boards of Big 5 Sporting Goods and United FP.

He received an M.B.A. from Northwestern University and a B.A. in Finance from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.