- Red Lobster CEO Damola Adamolekun focuses on leadership and operational improvements.
- Adamolekun emphasizes staying focused, controlling emotions, and taking breaks to be a good leader.
- His leadership tactics aim to enhance productivity, decision-making, and team motivation.
Since becoming Red Lobster’s CEO in September 2024, Damola Adamolekun has overseen the launch of a next-generation menu, reintroduced fan favorites, added new dishes, and rolled out happy hour at many restaurants nationwide.
The former CEO of PF Chang told Business Insider that though he’s changed companies, his focus as a CEO remains on investing in people, simplifying and improving operations, ensuring a consistently great product, revitalizing marketing efforts, and upgrading technology systems and infrastructure.
Adamolekun was previously a partner at Paulson & Co., headquartered in New York City, and led the transaction to acquire PF Chang’s in 2019. He then served as chief strategy officer and company director until being named CEO in May 2020 at only 31 years old; he served in that role until December 2023. Previously, Adamolekun worked in the investment banking division of Goldman Sachs and as a private equity associate at TPG Capital.
The Red Lobster CEO shared his top three leadership tactics with BI.
Concentrate on one task at a time
Adamolekun emphasized that effective leaders know the importance of staying present and honing in on the task at hand to eliminate distractions.
“With so many distractions in today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to get sidetracked,” Adamolekun said. “By concentrating on one task at a time, you not only increase your own productivity but also set an example for your team.”
This focused approach allows him to make thoughtful decisions, maintain clarity, drive initiatives forward, and avoid the mistakes that come from rushing or multitasking.
Practice emotional control
Effective leaders also know how to manage their emotions so they can respond rather than react, according to Adamolekun — especially in challenging situations.
“Practicing emotional control means taking a moment to pause, assess the situation, and respond thoughtfully, rather than reacting impulsively,” he said.
Adamolekun explained that this leadership hack helps him maintain calm during crises, make better decisions, and lead with empathy.
“When you model emotional control, you create a stable environment where your team feels supported and motivated, even in the face of adversity,” Adamolekun said. “By modeling emotional resilience, you inspire your team to approach adversity with confidence and composure, which helps maintain a positive work environment.”
Take a break and step back from duties
This CEO prioritizes recharging and refocusing to facilitate clarity and creativity.
Making time to unplug and disconnect from work allows Adamolekun to recharge, reflect, and gain new perspectives so he can come back to his team with fresh ideas, renewed focus, and a more balanced outlook. He feels this approach ultimately enhances his leadership effectiveness in the long run.
“Leadership can be draining when you’re constantly connected,” Adamolekun said. “Whether it’s taking a run, stepping away from technology and social media, or simply taking a break, stepping back from your duties gives you the mental clarity and energy you need to lead with purpose.”
If you’re a CEO and would like to share your productivity tips, please email Manseen Logan at mlogan@businessinsider.com.
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