S4:E5 Clarence Otis Jr. I From Watts to the Corner Office

"The future in this country is one where the folks setting the pace will be more diverse than ever. That’s baked in, and while there’s backlash, the numbers will ultimately tell the tale." Clarence Otis

Clarence Otis Jr., former Chairman and CEO of Darden Restaurants Inc., is busy these days serving on the Boards of Verizon as Lead Director, of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, and as chairman of Jazz at Lincoln Center, among others. During his 10 years of leadership at Darden which ended in 2014, whose brands include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Seasons 52, Yard House, and Capital Grille, the company achieved remarkable sales growth.

Otis reflects on his time at Darden and provides insights into the sale of Red Lobster during his tenure, and how public policies often inadvertently favor larger companies, making it difficult for smaller, independent businesses to thrive. Otis reveals his views on immigration’s role in hospitality and discusses AI's potential to automate certain restaurant functions, particularly in back-office tasks.

Growing up in Watts shaped Clarence's perspective on fairness and opportunity. He learned from his father that positive family influence and a strong work ethic are crucial to success. Sharing our mutual love of jazz, we discussed the genre's state and its struggle to attract younger audiences in the US.

Our discussion concludes with Otis’s optimism about America's diverse future and his belief in resilience amid changing demographics. His journey showcases how leaders can rise to significant roles while staying true to their values, as a model of how strategic vision and a commitment to equity can lead to impactful, lasting success.

Thank you my longtime friend Eric Williams for connecting me with Clarence.

CHAPTERS

1. [00:00:00] Introduction and Guest Overview
2. [00:02:19] Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
3. [00:07:10] California as a Business Environment
4. [00:12:55] Impact of AI and Technology on Hospitality
5. [00:16:03] Consumer Behavior and Economic Trends
6. [00:17:42] Clarence’s Childhood in South Los Angeles
7. [00:22:34] Navigating Gang Culture and Community Dynamics
8. [00:26:20] Father’s Work Ethic and Life Lessons
9. [00:31:52] Parenting Philosophy
10. [00:33:06] Diversity in Corporate Leadership
11. [00:38:27] The Sale of Red Lobster
12. [00:43:20] Cultural Reflections on Entertainment and Branding
13. [00:50:15] Jazz and the Arts
14. [00:52:36] Effective Communication and Leadership
15. [00:53:39] Optimism About the Future

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Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality

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