Darden Restaurants on Monday announced that Jim Lawrence will succeed Barry Moullet as senior VP and chief supply chain officer, effective 28 May, as the Orlando, Fla.-based restaurant chain begins its new fiscal year.
Lawrence assumes responsibility for sourcing, distribution and quality assurance across the Darden enterprise, which includes Red Lobster, the United States’ largest seafood chain. As a member of Darden’s operating team, he reports to Drew Madsen, president and COO.
Darden’s supply chain team manages more than USD 3 billion in capital and food product expenditures annually. To meet the needs of its guests, the company sources more than 35 million cases of product from 1,500 vendors in 35 countries around the world.
Lawrence began his career at Darden in 1995, was promoted to VP-supply management in 2000 and was named a senior VP in 2005 when he was appointed to lead Darden’s supply management and food purchasing teams.
“Jim has played a vital role in our supply chain’s evolution and he is the perfect person to lead our efforts moving forward. With his leadership and knowledge of the business, Jim will ensure the team is continually enhancing our supply chain capabilities so that it remains a competitive advantage for Darden,” said Madsen.
Moullet is stepping down after a long and distinguished career with Darden. “As I transition to new opportunities in academia and consulting following some time with family this summer, I am confident that Darden’s supply chain organization is in good hands under Jim's leadership,” said Moullet, who will assist with the transition prior to his departure.
Moullet joined Darden in 1996 as senior VP-purchasing and distribution, and was named chief supply chain officer in August 2003.
“Barry has made immeasurable contributions to Darden by helping in the build out of our supply chain that provides significant competitive advantage,” said Madsen. “We are thankful for his service and wish him well in this new stage of his life.”
Darden Restaurants, the world's largest full-service restaurant company, owns and operates more than 1,900 restaurants that generate over USD 7.5 billion in annual sales.
