O'Charley's Hires Famous Dave's CEO Wilson Craft

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Casual dining chain O'Charley's Inc. said Thursday it has named the former CEO of Famous Dave's of America, Wilson Craft, to the position of concept president.

Craft, 56, will be in charge of strategy to enhance sales, profitability and long-term growth. He replaces Jeffrey Warne, who was promoted to the O'Charley's CEO post on June 4.

Craft was previously executive vice president of operations at LongHorn Steakhouse, before Darden Restaurants Inc. bought it from RARE Hospitality International. He also worked at Brinker International for 21 years on the Chili's Grill & Bar, Big Bowl Asian Kitchen and other brands.

Nashville, Tenn.-based O'Charley's also said it gave Craft 150,000 non-qualified stock options.

O'Charley's shares fell 31 cents, or 3.3 percent, to $9.06 in afternoon trading.