American Blue Ribbon Holdings Names Jeff Neely Concept President of Max & Erma's

DENVER, Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- American Blue Ribbon Holdings, LLC (ABRH) announced today the appointment of Jeff Neely as concept president of Max & Erma's Restaurants, Inc., which ABRH acquired this month.

"With over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Jeff is an accomplished senior-level executive with proven operations experience in turnaround and high-growth organizations," said Hazem Ouf, President and CEO of American Blue Ribbon Holdings. "Most recently, he's done a great job as VP-Operations for our Village Inn restaurants, where he played a key role in the successful turnaround of that brand over the last 18 months."  

Mr. Neely began his career with another Columbus, Ohio-based company, Donatos Pizza, in the late 70's.  His background includes senior executive positions in operations, franchising and human resources for industry leaders including Domino's Pizza, Einstein Bros. Bagels and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers.

"I am excited to take the helm of Max & Erma's, and looking forward to helping the chain once again become a significant player in the casual dining arena," commented Mr. Neely. "Being a native of Columbus and having grown up with very fond memories of the Max & Erma's brand, this truly is a childhood dream of mine coming true."

About American Blue Ribbon Holdings, LLC:

Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, American Blue Ribbon Holdings, LLC operates three restaurant concepts under proven and well-recognized brands – Bakers Square, Village Inn and Max & Erma's – as well as a commercial baking subsidiary, Legendary Baking. ABRH has 338 restaurants in 38 states, consisting of 226 company-operated restaurants and 112 franchised restaurants. ABRH is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fidelity Newport Holdings, LLC, which is owned by Fidelity National, a Fortune 500 company, and Newport Global Opportunities Fund LP.

SOURCE American Blue Ribbon Holdings, LLC