DALLAS, April 16, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ -- Robin Robison, Chili's Grill & Bar(R) Regional Director, was honored by the Women's Foodservice Forum (WFF) with the 2008 Leadership Award. The Women's Foodservice Forum is an organization dedicated to elevating women leaders in the foodservice industry.

The WFF Leadership Award recognizes Foodservice industry leaders who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities within their company and the industry-at-large, and whose professional growth and achievements are recognized through career advancement. The award was bestowed during the WFF Annual Leadership Development Conference Awards Ceremony yesterday in Washington, D.C.

Robison began her career at Chili's as a server and moved up the ranks to become a Regional Director. In this role, she oversees more than 80 Chili's restaurants in Northern California, Nevada, and Utah. Robison is also responsible for the western region of Brinker's Diversity Task Force, where her leadership skills have helped that region rank number one in ethnicity, gender-female and retention goals at the restaurant manager level, year after year.

"Robin is incredibly focused on leading by example. She truly inspires other women to set high standards and reach for their goals," said Todd Diener, President of Chili's Grill & Bar. "Over the years, many people have told me Robin is the reason they work for our company and they aspire to be a leader with the same kind of values and qualities that she brings to our team. We're very proud of her latest achievement."

"Robin is a great example to our industry and the WFF is proud to honor her with this year's WFF Leadership Award," said Mary Bentley, WFF President. "We are excited to celebrate her career advancement and great success at our upcoming conference."

ABOUT CHILI'S GRILL & BAR

Chili's Grill & Bar is the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International (NYSE: EAT), a recognized leader in casual dining. Chili's offers a fun, energetic atmosphere and a distinct, fresh mix of grilled American favorites at more than 1,400 locations in 24 countries. Other Brinker brands include Romano's Macaroni Grill(R), Maggiano's Little Italy(R) and On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina(R). For more information, please visit http://www.chilis.com.

ABOUT WOMEN'S FOODSERVICE FORUM

The Women's Foodservice Forum is the premier leadership development community for collective insights and connections that empower women in the Foodservice industry to envision and achieve their highest potential. With more than 3,500 members from all segments of the foodservice industry, including restaurant operations, manufacturing, distribution, publishing and consulting, Women's Foodservice Forum is committed to helping elevate women leaders. Through highly beneficial keynote addresses and workshops at the Annual Leadership Development Conference, Regional Connect events, mentoring and more, WFF provides members with the tools needed to make a positive difference in their careers. For more information about Women's Foodservice Forum, please visit the website http://www.womensfoodserviceforum.com.

SOURCE Chili's Grill & Bar

http://www.chilis.com  

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