Five Star Food Service announced Monday the promotion of Richard Kennedy to president and chief executive officer. Mr. Kennedy will take on increased responsibility for the strategic direction of the company, while implementing new initiatives in operations, marketing, technology and human resources.
Since August 2018, Mr. Kennedy served as chief operating officer of Five Star Food Service, leading the company in operational execution and optimization. Prior to Five Star, Mr. Kennedy served as a director of a corporate strategy and operations consulting firm where he assisted Five Star through a restructure and rebuilding process in 2008, resulting in a transition to and eventually becoming Canteen’s largest franchise.
Additionally, Alan Recher has moved from president and chief executive officer to executive chairman – focusing on the strategic direction and growth plans for Five Star Food Service.
Mr. Recher joined Five Star in 2005 as chief operating officer and has led the company through growth as president and CEO since 2008. Mr. Recher’s list of accomplishments at Five Star is lengthy, including being named NAMA’s Operator of the Year for 2015. Under his leadership, the company grew revenue nearly five times, resulting from early (and heavy) investment in micro markets and unattended retail technology, as well as integration of numerous acquisitions.
“We strongly believe the timing is right for this change in day-to-day leadership, allowing the company to move swiftly, diligently and creatively into the future, while maintaining and enhancing our distinctive culture that makes us Five Star,” said Mr. Recher. “We have absolute confidence that Richard will lead the company with great success, given his passion for our people and the people we serve, our customers.”
“It is an honor to serve Five Star in this new role, and particularly special to be doing so back in my hometown of Chattanooga. Al Recher has built a wonderful company and a fantastic team. It will be a tall task to fill his shoes. I look forward to building on this success while continuing to provide our customers with unique, unsurpassed service and give our employees a safe and fulfilling work environment,” said Mr. Kennedy.