Damola Adamolekun
Former CEO of PF Chang's, Investment Partner at Paulson & Co.
Damola Adamolekun’s journey began on the gridiron of Brown University, where he was not just a player but a champion and part of the Ivy League-winning football team. Leadership came instinctively, as evidenced by his role as President of the Brown Investment Group. This early passion for finance led him to Harvard Business School, where they sharpened his skills as portfolio manager of the HBS Investment Club.
Wall Street awaited, and they tackled strategic initiatives with confidence and finesse at Goldman Sachs' Investment Banking Division. Their thirst for growth soon led them to TPG Capital in Private Equity, where he honed his ability to analyze, strategize, and drive success. These experiences became the stepping stones for his role as CEO of P.F. Chang's.
Leading this iconic restaurant chain is not about mere numbers; it's about empowering a team of 20,000 across 300+ locations to deliver an exceptional dining experience that transcends borders. Their commitment to excellence has been recognized by the industry, earning them GLOBEE Leadership Gold awards for CEO of the Year and Transformational Leader in 2021 and a coveted spot on Nation's Restaurant News Power List 2022.
Beyond P.F. Chang's, his expertise ripples outward. As a board member of the National Restaurant Association and influential restaurant groups like NuLeaf and Inday, they help shape the future of dining, ensuring diverse palates are met with innovative approaches. His investment acumen continues to thrive at Paulson & Co., where they actively manage some of its most significant holdings, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes.
Living in Scottsdale, Arizona, fuels his passion for community. They cheer on the Phoenix Suns, contributing their financial expertise as board members and finance chair of the YPO Scottsdale Chapter, and support the arts through the Phoenix Symphony Board. Damola’s story is of continuous learning, strategic leadership, and dedication to excellence, woven together across football fields, boardrooms, and vibrant communities. Each chapter has built upon the last, leading him to this pivotal role at P.F. Chang's, where he strives to create memorable meals and a thriving community of guests and team members united by a shared passion for exceptional experiences.
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