TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 4, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bloomin' Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLMN ) today announced the appointment of Pat Murtha as Executive Vice President of Bloomin' Brands, and President, Bloomin' Brands International. In this role, Murtha will be responsible for helping define, develop and implement the international growth strategy for Bloomin' Brands, and will be a member of the Executive Leadership Team. His appointment is effective November 11, 2013.
"International development will continue to be a key driver of our long-term growth strategy," said Elizabeth Smith, Chairman of the Board and CEO. "We have built a world-class international team, and Pat's proven leadership in this arena will be invaluable as we build upon our current positive momentum internationally."
"I believe the international opportunity at Bloomin' Brands is outstanding, and I am excited to help bring that to fruition," said Murtha. "This unique portfolio of brands is ideal for international expansion."
Prior to joining Bloomin' Brands, Murtha held leadership roles at YUM Brands where he spent 17 years in a variety of positions including Chairman of the Board and Managing Director of KFC, Japan, Ltd., Chief Operating Officer of Pizza Hut and Chief People Officer, YUM Restaurants International. In addition, Murtha held leadership roles at Ameritech and PepsiCo., Inc.
Murtha holds a BA from Pennsylvania State University, an MBA from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and a Masters of Management from Kellogg Graduate School of Management.
About Bloomin' Brands, Inc.
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. is one of the largest casual dining restaurant companies in the world with a portfolio of leading, differentiated restaurant concepts. The Company has five founder-inspired brands: Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar and Roy's. The Company owns and operates nearly 1,500 restaurants in 48 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and 21 countries, some of which operate under a franchise or joint venture agreement. For more information, please visit bloominbrands.com.
Cathie Koch Vice President, Corporate Communications (813) 830-5127
