
There is a Yoruba saying my father often shared with me: “Omi kii r’ehin igi”—water always finds its way around obstacles. Along with my name, “Damola” (translates as “the blessing of wealth”), this proverb shaped my understanding of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of navigating challenges with purpose.
How My Upbringing Prepared Me for Business Success
I grew up in Nigeria, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands, and the U.S., which gave me a deep appreciation for different perspectives. It shaped my ability to adapt to various environments, an essential skill as I transitioned from navigating cultural differences to driving strategic transformations in my career. At Brown University, I learned to balance academics with leadership roles and athletics, honing the discipline and critical thinking that now define my professional success.
Becoming the First Black CEO of P.F. Chang’s
This balance between purpose and performance has guided every career step, from Goldman Sachs to private equity at TPG and eventually to P.F. Chang’s. When I became the company’s first Black CEO in 2020, I understood the weight of that milestone—not just for myself but for every Black professional seeking representation in leadership.
Leading a Restaurant Brand Through the Pandemic
During one of the most challenging periods for the restaurant industry, I led P.F. Chang’s through the pandemic by launching initiatives like P.F. Chang’s To Go. This adaptive strategy not only returned the company to profitability, with a 31.7% sales increase but also redefined its future in a rapidly shifting market.
But my story is about more than metrics. I embrace work (labor) as a calling rather than a chore. My Yoruba heritage instilled in me that work and life are intertwined, both driven by purpose and passion. This perspective has been my grounding force—I start each day with a reflective morning run and end it with a quiet time spent in gratitude for the challenges I overcame.
Revitalizing Red Lobster: The Future of a Legacy Brand
As CEO of Red Lobster, I am leading its revitalization during a critical financial turning point. By focusing on incremental innovation and honoring the brand’s legacy, I am navigating its path toward long-term stability and success, much like I did at P.F. Chang’s.
Empowering Black Professionals
What excites me most about Black On The Job is its unwavering commitment to empowering Black professionals to thrive, break systemic barriers, and create generational impact. The mission to transform lives through career development, representation, and economic upliftment resonates deeply with my own journey and values.
As someone who has navigated spaces where Black leadership is underrepresented, I have dedicated my career to proving that innovation and representation are not just compatible—they are essential for meaningful, transformative change. My story demonstrates the impact of blending personal growth with professional excellence to inspire others and pave the way for success.
For further insight into my professional journey and impact, see my resume.
Sincerely,
Damola Adamolekun
CEO, Red Lobster
Your Career Journey Matters
Your career journey has the power to create ripples, too. Investing in your growth—refining your skills, navigating challenges, and following a clear career roadmap—can transform your future and those around you. Let’s discuss translating your potential into a strategic plan that opens new doors to success.
Comments