G.J. Hart | Photo credit: Dutch Bros

Oregon-based Dutch Bros has appointed seasoned restaurant industry expert G.J. Hart to its Board of Directors, where he will serve as an independent director and as Chair of the Compensation Committee. 
 

In a press release, the drive-thru coffee chain said it will leverage Hart’s extensive experience of growing fast-casual dining concepts, including nearly 25 years in various CEO positions. Hart currently serves as CEO of Colorado-based Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and previously held the same role at Texas Roadhouse, California Pizza Kitchen and Torchy’s Tacos. 

“G.J. knows what it’s like to sit in the CEO seat; we look forward to leveraging his extensive industry experience as we continue to strengthen and diversify our Board of Directors,” said Christine Barone, CEO, Dutch Bros. 

“Dutch Bros is in the early innings of its growth story. I look forward to working with Christine, the leadership team, and the Board of Directors to ensure Dutch Bros scales in a meaningful way while keeping the elements that differentiate it in the industry,” Hart added. 

Dutch Bros’ Compensation Committee determines the compensation paid to the company’s executive officers and directors and oversees executive compensation policies with a goal to attract, retain and reward executive management. 

Hart’s appointment follows the addition of former Starbucks executives Sumitro Ghosh and Joshua Guenser to the Dutch Bros leadership team in the first quarter of 2024.  

Former Tata Starbucks CEO Ghosh joined the 876-store drive-thru coffee chain in January 2024 as President of Operations, responsible for store operations, real estate strategy and supply chain management. Guenser, a former Starbucks Senior Vice President of Finance, joined Dutch Bros the following month as Chief Financial Officer. 

Dutch Bros expects to open approximately 160 further sites in 2024 and achieve full-year sales above $1.2bn.