Hornblower Group Welcomes Cyrus Kelley as New Financial Leader
Hornblower Group is excited to announce the addition of Cyrus Kelley as the Senior Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis. In his new role, Kelley will work closely with Chief Financial Officer Frank Dunsford to spearhead the company’s financial strategy, focusing on budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
Cyrus Kelley's Impressive Background
Cyrus Kelley is a seasoned finance professional with over two decades of experience driving profitable growth in various billion-dollar brands. Prior to joining Hornblower Group, Kelley served as the Vice President of Finance and Strategy at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews, where he was instrumental in shaping the "North Star" strategy, which led to heightened guest satisfaction and increased team member retention. His leadership contributed to a remarkable 33 percent rise in profitability in 2023.
History with Darden Restaurants
Before his tenure at Red Robin, Kelley spent seventeen years at Darden Restaurants, where he occupied several leadership roles. His strategic initiatives led to an impressive 23 consecutive quarters of same-restaurant sales growth and transformed several underperforming markets into successful operations for popular brands like LongHorn Steakhouse.
Vision for the Future at Hornblower Group
“Cyrus’s proven abilities in finance make him a tremendous asset to our FP&A team. His expertise will help strengthen our data-driven decision-making process and shape our company strategy,” said Mike Flaskey, CEO of Hornblower Group. Kelley's proficiency in financial planning will be key as the organization seeks to build a best-in-class team.
A Strong Starting Point
Cyrus holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Liberty University. He expressed his excitement about joining Hornblower Group, stating, “With its incredible portfolio of iconic water and land experiences, I'm honored to join Hornblower's talented team. I’m eager to support our sales growth while executing significant initiatives that will lead us strategically into the future.”
Joining the Executive Team
Kelley will become an integral part of Hornblower Group's expanding executive team based in its Orlando office. He joins other key leaders, including Mike Flaskey, Chief People Officer Michelle Mason, and Senior Vice President of Sales Tony Walker, to enhance Hornblower Group’s financial capabilities.
About Hornblower Group
Hornblower Group stands out as a global leader in the experience and transportation industry. With a rich history spanning 100 years, its extensive portfolio includes water-based experiences like dining and sightseeing cruises, alongside land-based activities such as walking and food tours. The company also provides ferry services and other transportation solutions. The City Experiences division, under Hornblower Group, offers exceptional experiences both on land and water, ensuring a memorable journey for every guest. Additionally, Hornblower Marine supplies essential vessel outhaul and maintenance services, supporting a diverse range of maritime needs.
Global Presence and Impact
Hornblower Group operates in multiple countries and territories, covering over 50 U.S. cities and catering to more than 20 million guests annually. With headquarters in San Francisco, California, the company also has offices in Boston, Chicago, London, New York, Dublin, and Ontario. Strategic Value Partners (SVP) holds majority ownership of Hornblower Group, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in service and operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of Cyrus Kelley at Hornblower Group?
Cyrus Kelley has been appointed as Senior Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis at Hornblower Group, overseeing financial strategy and operations.
What experience does Cyrus Kelley bring to the role?
Cyrus Kelley has over 20 years of experience in finance, including significant roles at Red Robin and Darden Restaurants, where he drove successful financial strategies.
How will Kelley impact Hornblower's financial strategy?
Kelley is expected to enhance financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting, contributing to Hornblower's data-driven decision-making processes.
Where is Hornblower Group headquartered?
The headquarters of Hornblower Group is located in San Francisco, California, with additional offices across various major cities.
What services does Hornblower Group offer?
Hornblower Group provides a range of services including dining and sightseeing cruises, walking tours, ferry services, and more, targeting a global audience.
