LEE EUGENE I JR

About LEE EUGENE I JR

Eugene I. Lee, Jr. is an American business executive and corporate governance leader best known in recent years for serving as Independent Board Chair of Advance Auto Parts, Inc. He is also widely identified with Darden Restaurants, Inc., where he built a long and consequential operating career. His background is notable because he rose through the organization over decades, giving him deep experience in restaurant operations, financial oversight, brand leadership, and board-level decision-making. Lee began his career at Darden in 1984 as an hourly employee and later joined the restaurant support center in 1992 as an auditor. From there, he moved through a series of operating and executive leadership roles. Following Darden’s acquisition of RARE Hospitality International, he served as President of Darden’s Specialty Restaurant Group beginning in 2007. He later became President and Chief Operating Officer, then President and Interim Chief Executive Officer, and was appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2015. In 2020, Darden’s board also elected him Chairman of the Board. He retired from Darden’s board in 2023. His tenure at Darden corresponded with stewardship of a large portfolio of well-known restaurant brands, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Yard House, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze, and Eddie V’s. Public company disclosures describe him as a leader with extensive restaurant operating experience and a strong record of executive leadership. At Advance Auto Parts, his role as board chair reflects that same governance and strategic experience, especially in areas such as operational discipline, leadership succession, and long-term value creation. Overall, Lee’s career profile is that of a seasoned executive whose strengths lie in managing complex consumer businesses and guiding large public companies through growth and transition.