Red Lobster CEO on risks and rewards of a recovery role

“I think it can be the biggest return in the history of the catering industry,” he said in a large interview for FortuneNewly raised CEO’s playbook vodcast. “Directing it would be a unique opportunity.”

For aspirants at the angle office, the decision frame that Adamolekun describes offers a plan to assess when playing a transformational role. At the heart of it is the risk versus-return, similar to the calculation in the investment, where Adamolekun began his career in finance before spending the leadership of restaurants: first as CEO of PF Changs, followed by red lobster. “Investment is the activity of risk assessment, and I think you should manage your career in the same way,” he said. “The risk alone is not something to avoid. You just need sufficient performance.”

This “return” is not only financial. In the case of Adamolekun, it was an opportunity to make history by leading a legendary turnaround, supported by owners and a team in which he has confidence. The potential drawback, he said, was clear: the company could fail despite its efforts. But the increase – a revitalized red lobster and an achievement defining the career – were worth the bet.

This type of decision requires more than a rational calculation. It also requires self -knowledge. “Some people do not want to take risks because they are not comfortable in this environment,” he notes. “You must also know yourself, and tolerance at risk-re-compensation will be different for each person.”

Ambition also plays a role. Adamolekun says he has never moved away from intimidating goals, even at the risk of flops publicly. “Some people refuse to set ambitious goals because they are terrified by failure,” he said. “I’m not afraid of that. I don’t mind ensuring very high goals, and I don’t mind going after difficult things. You do your best and try to win. ”

By weighing the opportunity to take the lead of a company in crisis, the aspiring CEOs should take a step back and question three essential dimensions of the role:

• What is the real advantage? Look beyond financial incentives. Is the role a chance to redefine an industry, leave an inheritance or develop capacities that you cannot elsewhere?
• Do you trust donors? Reversals live or die on the stakeholders aligned. Without support property, capital and a resilient team, the chances of success decrease sharply.
• What is your risk appetite? Not all leaders are thriving in crisis. Honestly assess if you are comfortable betting your reputation – and perhaps your career – a return.

For Adamolekun, his current ambition is distilled in a single daring mandate: “to save the red lobster. It is sufficient.”

Do you have a CEO with essential opinions on leadership? Present them at ruth.umoh@fortune.com for FortuneCEO Playbook.

Ruth umoh
ruth.umoh@fortune.com

Smarter in a few seconds

Handicap of wealth. Gen Zer, who built several million dollars companies, lists 5 ways to optimize merciless during rush years

Shale stability. The president of Chevron explains how the company transformed the activity of shale historically boom-and-bust into a constant company

Talent Grab. GM made a descent into the Silicon Valley to build its new AI team. Here’s what he does.

Optional sleep. Inside the intense daily routine of the billionaire of Lucy Guo: 5:30 am, alarm clock, double gymnasium sessions and no lunch break

Leadership lesson

Damola Adamolekun on the cost of entry for a career victory: “”If there is a great opportunity that could change your life, but it’s risky … I’m ready to take these risks. »»

News to know

Keurig Dr Pepper would have almost an agreement of $ 18 billion for JDE Peet’s which could ultimately divide its coffee and drink units. Wsj

Meet Trump Crypto Brain Trust, who includes Eric, Don Jr., and an unconventional cast. Fortune

The American markets checked on Monday after a gathering on Friday fed by the signal of the Fed chair of a drop in potential rate and news from NVIDIA and the AMD agreement granting the US government a share of 15% of their flea sales in China. Fortune

Fed officials have sought to keep the economy of Jackson Hole, even if Trump’s push to oust a governor for lower rates will be looming. NOW

EP companies find it difficult to collect funds in the midst of a slowdown in the in -depth sector, even if they reduce costs and offer discounts to attract investors. FT