Cracker Barrel Old Country Store has named David Deno as its next chief executive officer, effective Aug. 10. Deno will also join the company’s board of directors on the same date.
Deno succeeds Julie Masino, who will step down as CEO and board member on Aug. 10. Masino will remain with the company in an advisory capacity through Oct. 9 to help ensure a smooth leadership transition.
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Carl Berquist, independent chairman of the Cracker Barrel board, praised Deno’s background and the process that led to his selection.
“Following a robust and thoughtful search process, we are pleased to welcome David as Cracker Barrel’s next CEO,” Berquist said. “He brings decades of experience across the restaurant and retail industries, with a strong track record of leading businesses through growth and a demonstrated commitment to operational excellence, guest experience, and team member engagement.”
Deno, who spoke about the opportunity ahead, called the brand one of a kind.
“Cracker Barrel is a truly iconic American brand, defined by its unique combination of warm country hospitality, timeless appeal, and deep connection with guests across generations,” Deno said. “I am honored to lead the Cracker Barrel team and look forward to unlocking the full potential of this remarkable brand.”
Deno added that his focus will be on both the guest experience and the bottom line.
“Together, we will stay focused on delivering delicious food and exceptional experiences for our guests, while driving profitable growth,” he said.
Logo Controversy
The leadership change comes about a year after a controversy surrounding the brand’s logo change.
The tempest began last summer, when the company announced plans for a simplified design featuring only the company’s name. Lebanon, Tennessee-based Cracker Barrel, which has 660 restaurants in 43 states, made the change as part of a wider plan to modernize its restaurants and appeal to younger customers.
Cracker Barrel decided to return to its old logo after critics — including President Donald Trump — protested the company’s plan to modernize.
In a post on its website, Cracker Barrel said it will retain its old logo, which features an older man in overalls sitting next to a barrel and the words “Old Country Store.”
About David Deno
Cracker Barrel says Deno brings more than four decades of restaurant and retail industry experience. Most recently, he served as CEO of Bloomin’ Brands from 2019 to 2024, where Cracker Barrel says he strengthened the company’s financial foundation and expanded its international presence.
Deno also spent 15 years in senior-level operations and financial roles at Yum! Brands and Pizza Hut, including serving as CFO and chief operating officer of Yum! Brands and CFO of Pizza Hut. He began his career in the restaurant industry at Burger King Corporation. He currently serves on the boards of Krispy Kreme, Inc. and Panera Brands.
Cracker Barrel operates approximately 660 company-owned locations in 43 states.