EAT Brinker International Inc

DALLAS, Oct. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Brinker International (NYSE:EAT), a recognized leader in casual dining, has named Gene Monteagudo chief operating officer of its Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant brand. In his new role, Monteagudo will oversee operations for Maggiano's Little Italy restaurants nationwide, help deliver on the brand vision, develop policy and strategic plans. "Gene's extensive operations experience in the restaurant, hospitality and food service industries makes him the ideal person to lead the Maggiano's operations team," said Wyman Roberts, president of Maggiano's Little Italy. "His ability to balance the needs of employees and guests while meeting and exceeding established goals will prove invaluable as we continue to drive profitability of the Maggiano's brand." Monteagudo was employed for more than six years with Aramark FSS International, where he held posts of director of operations, managing director and interim president for Aramark Mexico. During his tenure at Aramark, he was responsible for overall operational standards and efficiencies in Mexico, South Korea and Japan. Additionally, he oversaw and managed the company's initial market penetration efforts in China and India. Monteagudo was also previously with YUM! Brands, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and the University of Houston. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Restaurant, Hotel and Institutional Management from Texas Tech University and a Master of Science degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management. Monteagudo served as a founding member and on the board of directors for the Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance. He was nominated to serve on the United States Presidential Advisory Commission on Education and Professional Excellence for Hispanic Americans and is a past recipient of the National Restaurant Association's Norman Brinker Salute to Excellence Award. Maggiano's Little Italy specializes in Italian American cuisine available family-style or ala carte and made from scratch daily; served in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Maggiano's menu features both classic and contemporary recipes -- authentic pastas, signature salads, prime steaks, fresh seafood, regular chef specials and specialty desserts. Maggiano's locations are nationwide and offer lunch or dinner, carryout service and banquet spaces for special occasions. Maggiano's is one of four restaurants in the portfolio of Dallas-based Brinker International, a recognized leader in casual dining. Other Brinker restaurant brands include Chili's Grill & Bar, Romano's Macaroni Grill and On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina. For more information, visit http://www.maggianos.com/ . DATASOURCE: Brinker International CONTACT: Stacey Calbert of Brinker International, +1-800-775-7290 Web site: http://www.brinker.com/ http://www.maggianos.com/

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