Danny Meyer: Navigating Uncertainty as a Leader


 

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Danny Meyer is a New York City restaurateur who serves as the chief executive officer of Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG). City National Bank CEO Kelly Coffey was thrilled to speak with Danny about his experience with guiding a business through a pandemic and the future of the restaurant industry.

Danny says he spent the first half of his life getting an education about the world of hospitality without realizing it. His father owned a travel business, enabling Danny to develop a diversified appreciation for great food and service at an early age.

Danny Meyer opened his first restaurant in 1985 at the age of 27. His early success cemented his career as a hospitality stalwart for the decades to come. He has been the driving force behind some of New York City's most popular and acclaimed restaurants, including Union Square Café, The Modern and the Gramercy Tavern. He also founded the international casual-dining smash hit Shake Shack, a burger venture that went public in 2015.

Besides having a keen understanding of the restaurant industry, Danny has earned a reputation as a leader. USHG is known for its culture of enlightened hospitality, a philosophy that places employee well-being above all else.

Danny asserts that great hospitality is only possible if a company treats the people expected to provide it with respect. The philosophy has driven the accelerated growth of USHG from a small group of restaurants to a large, diversified and renowned hospitality organization. 




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This podcast is for general information and education only and is provided as a courtesy to the clients and friends of City National Bank. It is compiled from data and sources believed to be reliable, however City National Bank does not warrant that it is accurate or complete. Opinions expressed and estimates given are those of the speaker as of the date of the podcast with no obligation to update or notify of inaccuracy or change.