Prime Hospitality Group (PHG) has named José Laboy as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), signaling a strategic move toward expansion and enhanced operational excellence. Bringing over 30 years of invaluable experience in the hospitality industry, Laboy will spearhead the development and oversight of operations across PHG’s acclaimed portfolio, which includes Ruth’s Chris Steak Houses, The Exchange whiskey and cocktail bars, Bin 23 Bistro, and several hotel F&B operations.
Laboy’s extensive background encompasses leadership roles both domestically and internationally, where he has consistently delivered exceptional guest experiences while advancing brand objectives. Notably, his track record includes senior executive positions at Darden International, where he garnered accolades such as four-time recipient of Director of the Year for his exceptional operational performance.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have José join our team,” said Kristy Rans, PHG President. “His wealth of operational expertise in fine and casual dining, coupled with a proven ability to drive growth, will be instrumental in accelerating our expansion efforts and solidifying our position as a leading hospitality group.”
As an operations expert, Laboy specializes in optimizing efficiencies, fostering culinary and service innovations, driving profitability, nurturing talent pipelines, and catalyzing unit expansion nationwide. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Operations for Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, overseeing 94 restaurants and $350 million of annual revenue.
“I was drawn to PHG because of their commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences across a diverse portfolio of hospitality brands,” said Laboy. “I am excited to collaborate with the team in crafting strategic initiatives that will fuel PHG’s growth trajectory and uphold its reputation as a premier family-owned hospitality group.”
About Prime Hospitality Group, LLC
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Prime Hospitality Group (PHG) is the largest Ruth’s Chris Steak House franchisee with 12 locations in Indiana, Arkansas, Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina and Iowa. PHG also owns and operates Bin 23 Bistro, a traditional European Bistro serving French-influenced favorites, and The Exchange, a craft cocktail and whiskey bar. The PHG brands are built on delivering best in market experiences by providing elevated hospitality to its guests. Visit primehg.com to learn more and follow @primehospitalitygroup on LinkedIn.
