Staffing

Robert Webster steps down as CPK board chairman

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January 3, 2022

California Pizza Kitchen's Board Chairman Robert Webster is stepping down from the board to spend more time on other business interests, according to a press release.

Webster, co-founder and senior managing director at Twin Haven Capital Partners LLC, joined the board as chairman in Nov. 2020.

"Rob's leadership and experience were critical to the development of our long-term growth strategy and the incredible momentum we've created for the business in 2021," Jim Hyatt, CPK's CEO and a board member since 2018, said in the release. "We want to extend our deep appreciation to Rob for his service and contributions. We at CPK owe him an incredible debt of gratitude for helping us through this initial phase of transition and growth."

Board member Michael O'Donnell, who has been on the board since Nov. 2020, will take Webster's place as chairman.

O'Donnell is the former chairman and CEO of Ruth's Hospital group Inc.He then became executive chairman until Dec. 2020 and concluded his role as chairman of the board in April 2021. He also served on other private and public company boards including Hickory Tavern, a Rosser Capital portfolio company, Logan's Roadhouse, Cosi, Sbarro, The Ground Round, and Champps Entertainment.

"We are thrilled to have Michael lead our board going forward. His deep leadership and category experience coupled with his intimate understanding of our post restructuring growth plan will help us build on our successful 2021 performance year and deliver an even stronger 2022," Hyatt said in the release.

California Pizza Kitchen operates nearly 200 restaurants in eight countries and U.S. territories.