“We’re extremely excited to have Alan on our team,” said Clay Dover, president and CEO of MRG. “He has managed some of the most recognized brands in casual dining and will be a vital asset in the development of our entire network.”

Gaylin brings more than two decades of successful restaurant experience to the newly created post, having served in every role from concept and menu development to real estate strategy and operational management.

Gaylin previously served as a consultant on operational growth to franchisors across the country. Prior to that, he was president of ALG Hospitality, a Houlihan’s franchisee with development agreements for 13 locations in several states. He also served at the highest levels on the corporate side, holding positions as the chief operating officer and senior vice president of operations for Houlihan’s Restaurant Group and director of operations for the Italianni’s concept at T.G.I. Friday’s, Inc. among others.

“I have long admired the concepts that make up the MRG family, and I’ve paid considerable attention to the direction, concept revolutions and adaptability each has made in a changing industry,” Gaylin said. “I look forward to joining an incredible team as the company secures its position as a market leader across all brands.”

Gaylin currently resides in Phoenix, Ariz., and will relocate to the Dallas area.

About Metromedia Restaurant Group

Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Metromedia Restaurant Group (MRG) is one of the world’s leading multi-concept table-service restaurant groups with more than 700 restaurants in 16 countries. MRG manages two divisions, Metromedia Casual Dining, which oversees Bennigan’s Grill and Tavern, Steak and Ale and The Tavern concepts; and Metromedia Family Steakhouses, which oversees Ponderosa Steakhouse and Bonanza Steakhouse. Additional information is available at www.metrogroup.com.