Industry expert tapped to lead global operations of award-winning culinary concepts.
NEW YORK – Disruptive Restaurant Group, a subsidiary of sbe, the leading lifestyle hospitality company that develops, manages and operates award-winning hospitality venues globally, announced that Scott Kleckner has joined as Senior Vice President of Restaurant Operations. In his role, Kleckner will oversee the operations and expansion of all Disruptive Restaurant Group's stand-alone restaurants globally – including the award-winning Cleo, Katsuya, and Fi'lia brands.
"We are excited for Scott to join our newly-formed leadership team made up of seasoned hospitality experts," stated Sam Nazarian, Founder and CEO of sbe. "Our culinary concepts play a key role in the overall 360-degree experience that is unique to sbe, and with Scott's strong background in restaurant operations and development, we are well-positioned to execute our largest pipeline ever in company history."
Kleckner will act as the driving force for Disruptive Restaurant Group's growth both domestically and internationally, with a focus on licensing opportunities. Expansion plans consist of nine Katsuya, five Cleo, and two Fi'lia locations by 2020 in sought-after destinations across the US, Bahamas, and Middle East including: United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Kleckner adds, "sbe and Sam Nazarian's innovative culinary concepts have introduced a highly-curated and unique experience for guests. I'm excited to join sbe as they embark on this rapid global expansion."
Prior to his current position, Kleckner was the Executive Vice President at Patina Restaurant Group – responsible for over 30 different properties and helping shape the future of the brand. Previously, he was the Vice President of Operations, Chief Operating Officer designate and Partner of Dinosaur Restaurants. Doubling the company from four restaurants to eight through expansion across the Northeast, he oversaw eight acclaimed barbecue restaurants, associated retail business and catering.
Throughout his career, Kleckner has mastered the art of feeding people, whether it's 150,000 fans at The Kentucky Derby or a board of directors at a Michelin-starred restaurant. He has held a variety of leadership positions including: Director of Food & Beverage for InterContinental Hotel Group; District Manager for Sports, Entertainment & Conventions in New York and New Jersey, overseeing operations at a wide variety of sports and conference venues, including Citi Field, PNC Bank Arts Center, Meadowlands Racetrack, and Saratoga Performing Arts Center with Aramark Corporation; and Director of Operations at Hollywood Park Racetrack, Director of Operations for the Green Bay Packers, and General Manager at Dodger Stadium with Levy Restaurants.
Kleckner is deeply committed to animal welfare and the alleviation of poverty, and is a strong supporter of the arts. Kleckner has been an active Board Member of the Waste Not OC Coalition and serves as a Special Advisor to the Los Angeles Food Recovery Initiative taskforce, organizations dedicated to reducing waste and feeding deserving people.
Kleckner holds a B.S. in Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Management from University of Wisconsin-Stout.
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He currently studies Communication, Media & Culture in Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens.
