Cracker Barrel Appoints David Deno as CEO

By Ahmed Jamerson • Monday, July 27 10:54 • Permanent Link

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store said Sunday it has named David Deno as its next chief executive officer, effective Aug. 10, 2026, replacing Julie Masino, who will step down the same day and remain in an advisory role through Oct. 9.

Deno, who will also join the company’s board, most recently served as CEO of Bloomin’ Brands from 2019 to 2024. Before that, he was Bloomin’ Brands’ chief financial officer from 2012 to 2019. His earlier roles included senior leadership positions at Yum! Brands and Pizza Hut, and he currently sits on the boards of Krispy Kreme and Panera Brands.

The leadership change comes after a succession search process by the board. Independent chairman Carl Berquist said Deno brings “decades of experience” across restaurant and retail businesses and a track record in operational and financial performance.

Cracker Barrel said it operates about 660 company-owned locations in 43 states, a footprint that has been built since the first store opened in Lebanon, Tennessee, in 1969. Following these announcements, the company's shares moved 3.65%, and are now trading at a price of $53.71. If you want to know more, read the company's complete 8-K report here.

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