Cracker Barrel CEO at center of logo flap to quit. What's happening

Cracker Barrel fans will soon see a shift in national leadership, but it isn't expected to impact operations in Michigan. CEO Julie Masino is set to leave the company by fall, Cracker Barrel announced in a July 27 news release. Masino will step down as CEO and a member of the company's board of dire

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What is the story about?

Cracker Barrel fans will soon see a shift in national leadership, but it isn't expected to impact operations in Michigan.

CEO Julie Masino is set to leave the company by fall, Cracker Barrel announced in a July 27 news release. Masino will step down as CEO and a member of the company's board of directors Aug. 10, though she'll stay on in an advisory role until Oct. 9.

Masino will be replaced by David Deno, a longtime restaurant and retail industry executive, who will take over as CEO and join the board of directors Aug. 10, the release said. Deno most recently served as CEO of Bloomin' Brands, whose Michigan restaurants include Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill and Bonefish Grill.

"Following a robust and thoughtful search process, we

are pleased to welcome David as Cracker Barrel's next CEO. 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. We are confident David is the right leader to continue building on the Cracker Barrel legacy, drive further positive momentum operationally and financially, and create sustainable value for our shareholders," said Carl Berquist, independent chairman of the Cracker Barrel Board, in the release.

The southern "country" style restaurant-store chain features 15 locations throughout Michigan.

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Here's what to know about Cracker Barrel's leadership change.

Is Cracker Barrel's CEO leaving the company?

Yes, Cracker Barrel CEO Julie Masino will step down as CEO and a member of the company's board of directors effective Aug. 10, Cracker Barrel announced in the release.

"On behalf of the Board and the entire company, I want to thank Julie for her leadership and commitment to Cracker Barrel. We also appreciate her partnership to ensure a smooth leadership transition as we remain focused on the work underway to continue to serve our guests, support our employees, and execute our strategic priorities. We wish Julie all the best in her future endeavors," Berquist said in the release.

Masino will remain with Cracker Barrel as an advisor until Oct. 9, the company said.

Why did Cracker Barrel's CEO step down?

While Cracker Barrel did not provide a reason for Masino's departure, the company has faced controversy because of several changes in the past year.

Customer pushback ended a short-lived logo rebrand in summer 2025, followed by the halt of planned restaurant models and the end of its partnership with the company that advised its logo and restaurant design.

During its quarterly financial results call with investors on Dec. 9, 2025, Masino acknowledged Cracker Barrel had a "difficult" few months.

"While many of our guests are enjoying our improved food and guest experience, we certainly have more work to do to regain the trust and confidence of other who have been slower to return," she said.

Who will be Cracker Barrel's new CEO?

David Deno, a restaurant and retail business executive, is set to become Cracker Barrel's new CEO and a member of its board of directors Aug. 10, Cracker Barrel said in the release.

"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. I am honored to lead the Cracker Barrel team and look forward to unlocking the full potential of this remarkable brand. Together, we will stay focused on delivering delicious food and exceptional experiences for our guests, while driving profitable growth," Deno said in the release.

Deno previously served as CEO of Bloomin' Brands, a company whose restaurant brands include Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill and Bonefish Grill.