New executive hires will spearhead the optimization of strategy to drive operational performance and growth
Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group, the home of the New Orleans-style brunch, has welcomed Derek Kamarata and Michael McBride as regional VP of Operations in respective territories. With more than 30 cumulative years of specialized restaurant industry experience, the expert duo will drive operational performance for the brand, focusing on providing effective solutions, generating growth and enhancing customer satisfaction for guests.
Kamarata has been with Ruby since 2021 and served as Director of Operations before stepping into the new role. His background includes a variety of brands such as P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Cracker Barrel and CAVA, where he has overseen operations for more than a decade. In an ever-changing industry, Kamarata is known for fostering a strong team of empowered individuals, nurturing a team that prioritizes internal cohesion and empowers its members to excel. Derek will oversee operations for Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group in the northern region, including Tennessee, Birmingham and the Carolinas.
“At Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group, we pride ourselves on being an exciting, growing company that truly values quality and hospitality,” said Kamarata. “I’m thrilled to step into this new role and advance my journey with the brand, where I’ll continue to prioritize connecting with even more communities and team members as we continue to grow. Michael and I aim to continue elevating every Ruby experience, reinforcing our commitment to excellence.”
Michael McBride, a seasoned restaurant operations leader with two decades of experience, has a proven track record of driving success. From his early days at TGI Fridays to his long-standing tenure at Granite City Food & Brewery, Michael’s strategic vision and operational expertise led to numerous accolades and significant company growth. Stepping into the Regional Vice President role with Ruby Slipper, Michael brings a wealth of experience and deep-rooted ties to New Orleans, poised to lead the company’s expansion alongside Kamarata. Michael will oversee operations for Ruby Slipper spanning from New Orleans to the Gulf Coast of Alabama and Florida.
“Joining Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group and relocating with my family to the vibrant city of New Orleans was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” said McBride. “I’m eager to immerse myself fully in a community I hold dear and work alongside Derek to continue growing both Ruby Slipper and Ruby Sunshine.”
Ruby Slipper is a unique concept specializing in all-day “boozy brunch,” with award-winning cocktails and mimosas, as well as sweet and savory breakfast and lunch options. Born from the undeniable spirit and soul of New Orleans, it’s a place where the good times roll all day, every day.
Ruby Slipper has been a staple of New Orleans neighborhoods for over 15 years and has since expanded with locations across Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Born from the undeniable spirit and soul of New Orleans, a place where the good times roll on no particular day of the week or time of the day, we set out to create a place that celebrates the craveable and creative flavor and spirit of breakfast and brunch front and center, every day. Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group was founded in New Orleans in 2008 to help bring the community together over a shared love for brunch. Over a decade since that first cozy Ruby Slipper Café, the group has grown to operate two brands, expanding with Ruby Sunshine, and now has more than 20 restaurants in six states. Ruby Slipper is open seven days a week, serving an array of offerings from breakfast, lunch, brunch, coffee and cocktails.
For more, follow Ruby Slipper and Ruby Sunshine on Facebook and Instagram, and visit online at RubyBrunch.com.
