DAVID KRISTAL
Chief Executive Officer

David was literally born into the restaurant industry. The son of Embers Family Restaurants founder Henry Kristal, David has a keen sense for what it takes to grow a successful franchise chain. He's inspired by the reaction customers have to Joey's Seafood and Grill. "People crave the food and experiences, and they can't wait to come back for more." His aggressive plans for the chain could also be his personal mantra: "We will exceed the expectations our franchise partners have for Joey's Seafood and Grill, and we will exceed the expectations our team has for themselves."

BRAD BIRNBERG
Chief Operating Officer

Brad lives to make waves. During nearly 20 years in the restaurant industry, he has earned a reputation for developing and executing concepts that have changed the marketplace. "With Joey's Seafood and Grill, we have a chance to create our own niche," he says. "We can truly appeal to customers of all ages and demographics." In pursuit of his goals, Brad is doggedly persistent, and his achievements are legendary. In one day alone, Brad culminated the complex transition of seven corporate to franchise restaurants, with zero disruptions to the existing franchise system. Proving that with the right touch, it is possible to make waves, without rocking the boat.

JON OTTO
Chief Financial Officer

During his 16 years at Embers and Joey's Seafood and Grill, Jon has displayed a sense of balance that would make a tightrope walker jealous. On one side are forces compelling him to grow the franchise at a breakneck pace. On the other, the need to make sure the financial resources are managed to sustain this growth. In the middle, firmly in control, is Jon. He fearlessly steered Embers through the most dramatic growth period in the company's history. Now he is ready to do the same at Joey's Seafood and Grill. "I love sharing the excitement of a fresh concept that has such incredible appeal," he says.

GREG CATE
Vice-President of Marketing, Franchise Sales and Market Development

If you are visiting a domestic or international destination and want to know where to have a good meal ask Greg he’s been darn near everywhere at least once. Greg’s a seasoned franchise vet having spent 28 years in the franchise industry worldwide. He’s touched every aspect of the franchise discipline from marketing, operations and training to real estate and development. “The franchise business like a car engine must be serviced on a regular basis in order for it to run smoothly”.

LEIF HAUGEN
Director of Learning and Performance

Leif brings passion to everything he does. Whether he's clinging to the side of a mountain at 13,000 feet, or training future restaurant managers to reach new heights of their own, Leif is irrepressible. During his 25 years in the industry, he's done it all, including overseeing the rapid expansion of Embers from 1998 to 2003. "I get a lot of pleasure out of watching people grow and become successful," he says. Leif is also a bit of a philosopher. "My belief is that if you give people flexible resources and motivation, and if you teach them with respect, there's no end to what they can achieve."

BERNIE SANBORN
Vice President of Operations

Bernie has done it all. With 34 plus years in the restaurant business, he has helped run family businesses in both family style and supper club environments. Bernie also has worked as an Area Manager for a large fast food chain. Bernie did venture into the entrepreneurial side as well owning 4 restaurants for over 5 years. With his experience Bernie's goal is simple, "Give the guests a great experience, every time they walk through the door."

HENRY KRISTAL
Chairman of Embers America

Henry is a legend in the restaurant industry. With over 50 years of experience in every facet of the business, Henry knows what it takes to grow a franchise that keeps customers coming back for more. He is an innovator, a strategist, and a reliable sounding board for ideas. His enthusiasm for Joey's Seafood and Grill could light up a room. "Joey's Seafood and Grill has a lively, happy personality to it's concept," he says, adding, "the food is sensational - not only for its price, but for any price."