Kevin Hochman Receives 2025 Gold Plate Award
At a recent prestigious awards ceremony, Kevin Hochman, the CEO and President of Brinker International, was honored with the 2025 Gold Plate Award. This recognition, bestowed by the Food Away from Home Association (IFMA), celebrates outstanding leaders in the food service industry. The event took place in a grand setting where industry leaders came together to commend excellence.
Celebrating Leadership in Food Service
Hochman was celebrated for his remarkable contributions to the casual dining sector, specifically representing iconic brands like Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. Since Hochman took the helm in 2022, he has led Brinker International to significant heights, serving approximately 800,000 guests daily and employing a dedicated workforce of over 70,000 individuals. Under his guidance, the company's market value has soared beyond $7 billion.
The Journey to Recognition
The recognition was further highlighted by emotional comments from his mentor, who introduced him at the event. He highlighted Hochman's unique blend of intelligence, transparency, and genuine care for both employees and customers as key elements of his success. These traits are not just personal attributes; they are remarkably beneficial for Brinker’s values and future growth.
Accepting with Gratitude
In an inspiring acceptance speech, Hochman expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his family, colleagues, and mentors who supported him throughout his journey. He reflected on his leadership experiences and shared three pivotal insights: the enduring relevance of dining out, the value of operational fundamentals for success, and the importance of listening to frontline staff who interact directly with customers. These revelations resonate with anyone in leadership roles across various industries.
The Importance of Awards in Food Service
For over 70 years, IFMA has recognized exceptional food service operators through its Gold & Silver Plate Awards, considered the pinnacle of honors in this field. The selection process involves receiving nominations from across the industry, followed by evaluations from a jury of experts who assess the nominees' merits across diverse food service segments. Honorees receiving Silver Plate accolades are then eligible to vie for the prestigious Gold Plate Award.
Notable Past Awardees
The list of previous Gold Plate Award winners includes giants in the industry, showcasing a rich heritage of excellence. Names like Danny Meyer, Wolfgang Puck, and more recently, Chris Tomasso, exemplify the caliber of leadership acknowledged by these awards.
Noteworthy 2025 Silver Plate Winners
In addition to Hochman, several other esteemed individuals received Silver Plate Awards, including:
• Geoff Alexander, President and CEO of Wow Bao, recognized in Grocery and Convenience Retail.
• Ryan Conklin, Executive Chef at UNC Health Rex, honored in Healthcare.
• Gary Crompton, CEO of Aramark Workplace Experience Group, acknowledged in Foodservice Management.
This group represents a broad spectrum of talents reflecting the diverse landscape of the food service industry.
Connecting Industry Leaders
The celebration also served as an opportunity to foster connections among industry leaders. Current trends and shared challenges within the food service ecosystem were discussed, emphasizing the interconnected nature of the industry. The President of IFMA noted the invaluable relationships formed through such recognitions and the lasting impact they have on facilitating collaboration among past award winners.
Looking Ahead
The Food Away from Home Association is already preparing for the 2026 Silver Plate Awards, inviting nominations for individuals that exemplify the best in the field. These awards not only honor leaders but also encourage innovation and excellence in the food service community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gold Plate Award?
The Gold Plate Award is a prestigious recognition given by the Food Away from Home Association to honor outstanding leadership in the food service industry.
Who is Kevin Hochman?
Kevin Hochman is the CEO and President of Brinker International, known for leading casual dining brands like Chili’s and Maggiano’s.
How does IFMA select its winners?
IFMA's winners are selected through nominations across the industry, followed by evaluations from experts who assess the nominees on various criteria.
When will the next Silver Plate Awards take place?
The next Silver Plate Awards will be held in 2026, with nominations currently being accepted.
What insights did Hochman share in his acceptance speech?
Hochman emphasized the enduring relevance of dining out, the importance of operational fundamentals, and the necessity to listen to frontline staff for making informed decisions.
