### Executive Biography: Jon Vingo
Jon Vingo is an esteemed operations leader whose distinguished career spans multiple facets of the restaurant industry, from operational oversight to brand cultivation. With a proven track record that includes driving growth and optimizing performance for renowned establishments, Jon’s strategic acumen and forward-thinking approach have positioned him as a vanguard in the field. His expertise encompasses business development, brand management and strategy, marketing, and channel development, all underpinned by a keen understanding of consumer insights.
At the heart of Jon’s leadership philosophy lies his ability to nurture aligned, engaged teams, a skill he has leveraged to scale concepts successfully into new markets and demographics. A champion of operational innovation, Jon has consistently introduced cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance efficiency and foster a culture centered on retention and employee engagement. His efforts have not only expanded customer bases through innovative sales channels but have also entrenched the companies he led in their respective markets as formidable competitors.
As the Group Vice President and Vice President of Operations at Outback Steakhouse within Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., Jon oversaw strategic initiatives that propelled the brand forward. Prior to this role, he served as the CEO and President of Tokyo Joe’s, where his visionary leadership was instrumental in positioning the company for future success. His tenure at Tokyo Joe’s was preceded by his impactful contributions as COO, further cementing his reputation for operational excellence.
Jon’s commitment to growth and excellence was also evident during his time with Panera Bread, where he rose through the ranks from Joint Venture Partner to Regional Vice President of Operations for the Midwest/Northwest regions. His earlier role as Area Director of Operations for Bennigan’s in the Virginia/Maryland market showcases his longstanding dedication to enhancing operational practices across various geographies.
Complementing his professional endeavors is Jon’s academic foundation in Business Administration and Management from Northern Arizona University. Beyond his corporate achievements, Jon is also recognized as a 2020 Nations Restaurant News Powerlist Recipient—a testament to his influence in the industry. Furthermore, Jon actively contributes to his community through volunteer work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity International and Oregon Food Bank, exemplifying his commitment to social responsibility.
Jon Vingo’s career trajectory is a testament to his unwavering dedication to operational excellence, innovative thinking, and leadership. His ability to drive growth, nurture talent, and implement forward-thinking strategies has not only benefited the organizations he has led but also set a benchmark in the restaurant industry.
