News

New product development VP at the Captain D’s helm

December 8, 2010

Peter Gibbons has been named vice president of product development for Captain D's as the seafood chain prepares to revamp its menu.

The company has long featured signature fish items, including baked, broiled and hand-battered fried, but it is now considering new approaches to seafood behind the new hire.

"I am very pleased to have Peter joining us," Sandy Smith, Captain D's SVP of marketing, said. "He brings years of culinary experience to a position that will be critical to the future growth and success of our brand."

That culinary experience started at Boston College and the Culinary Institute of America. Gibbons then served as senior director of research and development at Burger King and vice president of product development at Denny's. Most recently, he was the vice president of culinary at Buffet Inc.

Gibbons has worked with product development, food technology and customer satisfaction — all areas in which Captain D's has plans for improvement. He will be responsible for all product development, menu planning, R & D and related functions. 

"Peter's unique talents and wealth of knowledge match perfectly with the new direction of Captain D's," said Phil Greifeld, Captain D's CEO.

Greifeld was appointed CEO in September and immediately set forth plans to improve upon these components of the brand. A major objective is to develop alternatives to Captain D's classic fried offerings, including a stronger emphasis on chicken and sandwiches.

"I came to Captain D's aware of the areas we can improve upon, and I am confident that Peter will be an important factor in moving our brand forward," Greifeld said.