Damola Adamolekun: Leading P.F. Chang’s To New Heights

This week Andrew talks with former P.F. Chang’s CEO Damola Adamolekun. Damola took over as CEO during the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic — and led the company & its 20,000 team members through a variety of monumental strategic initiatives. In this conversation, Damola shares a behind-the-scenes look at the leadership mindsets & philosophies he put in action to power one of the world’s most iconic brands to new heights. You’ll hear actionable lessons on how to manage during times of disruption, communicate a clear vision, achieve quick wins to build momentum, & so much more. This episode will get you hungry to take on your next big challenge.  

Programming Note: This conversation was recorded while Damola was still CEO at P.F. Chang’s prior to the recent announcement that he stepped down as CEO. 

Show Highlights: 

(2:30) - Decision to invest in P.F. Chang’s
(3:25) - Current vs. potential
(4:09) - Presenting investor pitch to John Paulson
(4:31) - Extrapolating to what’s possible
(6:38) - The power of being present
(8:32) - Using challenges/crisis to galvanize
(10:12) - Balancing parallel initiatives
(10:59) - Changing perceptions
(11:34) - Shifting mindset of an organization
(13:45) - Building momentum through quick wins
(14:23) - Restaurant operator going above & beyond
(18:34) - Attention to detail
(20:47) - Getting others excited about role
(23:51) - Damola’s morning routine
(24:38) - Starting your day with a conquest
(26:27) - Creating positive habits
(28:35) - Moving from Nigeria to US
(30:22) - Damola’s inspiration

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