McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants, Inc. Announces the Appointment of William Freeman as Chief Executive Officer
	McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants, Inc. (Nasdaq: MSSR) today announced the appointment of William Freeman as its Chief Executive Officer effective January 12, 2008. Mr. Freeman will be assuming the position from co-founder Douglas Schmick, who will remain Chairman of the Company
Mr. Schmick, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, said, 'We are very excited to welcome Bill to the McCormick & Schmick's family. He brings significant industry experience in the areas of branding, strategic development, and operational execution. Bill truly understands the importance of brand development and brand extension through the execution of strategic plans. His day-to-day success in delivering quality and service while maintaining financial discipline will be a valuable asset to the company in the current economic climate. We believe Bill's experience with several major brands provides the right skill-set to help manage and preserve the McCormick & Schmick's legacy as we seek to drive consumer awareness regarding our unique positioning, diverse menu offering and compelling price-value proposition.' Story continues below ↓ Advertisement William Freeman has more than 19 years of experience in the restaurant and entertainment industries, most recently as the Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fox Sports Grill, where he was responsible for the creation, development, operation and growth of the concept from inception. He has also held senior management positions with Robert Redford's Sundance Entertainment, where he was responsible for all operating divisions including the Sundance Channel, Sundance Resort and the development of the Sundance Film Centers, and Disney Regional Entertainment, where he developed, operated and grew the ESPN brand on a national basis through the development of retail, restaurant and live production venues. Earlier in his career, Mr. Freeman also served in executive positions at DAKA International, a former parent company of Champps Americana and Fuddruckers. Mr. Freeman began his career as a Certified Public Accountant at Ernst & Whinney. 'I am very excited to be joining McCormick & Schmick's and am looking forward to working with the board and management team to build upon the Company's thirty-plus year reputation as the leading fresh seafood restaurant in the country,' stated Mr. Freeman. In addition to his role as Chief Executive Officer, it is anticipated that Mr. Freeman will serve as a member of the Board of Directors. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants, Inc. is a leading seafood restaurant operator in the affordable upscale dining segment. The Company now operates 91 restaurants, including 85 restaurants in the United States and six restaurants in Canada under The Boathouse brand.