Leadership

Hard Rock names Kim Boerema president of cafe operations

The longtime restaurant veteran was previously COO of California Pizza Kitchen.
Hard Rock Cafe
PHotograph: Shutterstock

Hard Rock International has named Kim Boerema president of the rock ‘n’ roll brand’s Hard Rock Café operation, filling the vacancy left by the departure of Stephen Judge.

Boerema is a 33-year veteran of the restaurant business, having served most recently as CEO of the Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant brewpub chain. He has also held the COO post at California Pizza Kitchen and was a VP for Texas Roadhouse.

“Kim joins Hard Rock with a remarkable track record and a wealth of experience in restaurant leadership, which we are confident will grow the Hard Rock Cafe brand,” Jon Lucas, Hard Rock International’s COO, said in a statement. “Kim’s vast experience and knowledge of the restaurant industry will bring a diverse set of skills to the team and provide crucial insight to the overall strategic operations for the Hard Rock Cafe division.”

The parent company said Boerema will report directly to Lucas.

Hard Rock International is the operator or franchisor  of about 240 cafes, hotels, merchandise shops and casinos in 69 countries. The brand is owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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