Cracker Barrel Appoints David Deno Chief

Cracker Barrel announced a leadership change on July 27, 2026. Cracker Barrel appointed former Bloomin’ Brands CEO David Deno as its next CEO, effective August 10, 2026, succeeding Julie Masino.

What changed

David Deno was named Chief Executive Officer. Julie Masino was set to step down as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board effective August 10, 2026, and to remain with the company in an advisory capacity until October 9, 2026 to support a smooth transition.

Leader: David Deno
Role: Chief Executive Officer
Effective: August 10, 2026
Announcement date: July 27, 2026

Leadership background

Cracker Barrel described Deno as a restaurant and retail industry executive with more than four decades of experience. He was CEO of Bloomin’ Brands from 2019 to 2024, and before that was its Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 2012 to 2019, leading the company through its initial public offering. Earlier, he served as President of Asia and Chief Financial Officer for the International Division at Best Buy, and spent 15 years in senior operations and finance roles at Yum! Brands and Pizza Hut, including Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Yum! Brands.

The mandate

Cracker Barrel said Independent Chairman Carl Berquist is confident Deno is the right leader to continue building on the company’s legacy, drive further positive momentum operationally and financially, and create sustainable value for shareholders. Deno said the focus will stay on delivering delicious food and exceptional experiences for guests while driving profitable growth.

Why this matters for GTM teams

Executive appointments can precede changes in strategy, operating cadence, hiring, partnerships, and technology priorities. The useful signal is not the title alone: teams should watch the new leader’s stated mandate, prior playbook, organizational scope, and the initiatives announced during the first two quarters.

Source and methodology

This leadership profile is based on the company’s announcement. Roles, transition timing, and biographical details are presented as announced; SalesTools Research does not infer undisclosed succession plans.

Cracker Barrel