Texas Roadhouse names its first growth officer

Texas Roadhouse Photo courtesy of Alicia Kelso

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Texas Roadhouse has named Lloyd Paul Marshall as its first-ever chief growth officer, effective immediately.

He has served as vice president of operations for the company’s Bubba’s 33 concept since November 2021 and will continue to serve as that brand’s leader while also working alongside chief executive officer Jerry Morgan in overseeing construction, design, real estate, development, and facilities functions.

Marshall joined the company in 1997 as the managing partner of the chain's Killeen, Texas, location. He was promoted to market partner in 2003 before serving as vice president of Bubba’s operations. Before joining Texas Roadhouse, Marshall was a multi-unit operator with Landry’s Seafood. He has over 35 years of restaurant industry experience.

Marshall’s appointment comes as the company experiences tremendous growth. The flagship brand ended 2024 with 664 locations, marking a 4.1% year-over-year increase, according to Technomic data. It also generated $5.5 billion in sales, or a 14.7% year-over-year increase, surpassing casual dining peer Applebee’s for the first time.

The company’s Bubba’s 33 concept grew its footprint by nearly 9% in 2024, ending with nearly 50 locations. Sales jumped more than 20%. During Texas Roadhouse’s second quarter earnings call last week, Morgan said Bubba’s, which currently has 53 locations in 16 states, has a “road to 200 locations … This could include double-digit openings next year.”

And, Jaggers ended 2024 with 13 locations, marking a 23.1% increase year-over-year, while sales grew nearly 30%. The company plans to open as many as eight company and franchised Jaggers next year.

Also, the Texas Roadhouse board of directors appointed Morgan as executive vice chairman of the company, effective immediately. He will continue to serve as CEO, and his appointment is part of the company’s long-term succession planning for the board, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As EVC, he will preside over board meetings in the absence of the chair and will perform other duties as assigned.

On Thursday, the company’s board increased the number its members from eight to nine, adding Hugh Carroll, president of international. Carroll has been with the company since 2012.

Finally, Chris Colson has been promoted from chief legal and administrative officer to chief business and administrative officer. Following Carroll’s planned retirement at the end of 2025, Colson will oversee the company’s international franchising and development activities, in addition to overseeing the legal department. He has been with Texas Roadhouse for 20 years.

Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]

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