Rick Federico delivers exquisite cuisine at Thompson 105
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Rick Federico has officially been awarded The Impact Award – an Elliot Award for leaders who have made a measurable difference in the food and beverage industry.
Founded by Alice Elliot, The Elliot Group has been a premier resource in recruiting C-suite executives since 1984, according to a press release.
“I am beyond honored to receive this prestigious award from the esteemed Elliot Group,” Mr. Federico said in a prepared statement.
“Alice Elliot has been a great supporter, mentor and friend for many years, and I am thrilled to be recognized for my contributions in the industry. I must also thank all those who have worked alongside me all of these years – I wouldn’t be here today without the love and support from each and every one of you.”
Mr. Federico began his career in the restaurant industry as a manager at Steak & Ale, an American chain restaurant headquartered in Dallas.
Later, he served in manager positions at both Orville Beans and Bennigan’s restaurants. Mr. Federico went on to develop Grady’s Goodtimes, serving as co-founder, partner and vice president of operations until the company was acquired in 1989 by Brinker International, Inc.
Upon joining Brinker International, Mr. Federico served as senior vice president and concept head for Macaroni Grill before he was promoted to president of the Italian Concept division, directing operations and development for both Macaroni Grill and Spageddies.
In 1996, Federico joined P.F. Chang’s China Bistro as president and chairman of the board. One year later, Federico was promoted to CEO of P.F. Chang’s, where he stayed in his position until March 2015. From 2015 to February 2019, he also served as both executive chairman of P.F. Chang’s and non-executive chairman.
In 2022, Mr. Federico teamed up with Tim Donmoyer and Ric Gordon to open their latest concept, Thompson 105 Woodfired Grill + Cocktails – an American neighborhood spot in Scottsdale.
Thompson 105 will be featured as one of the many restaurants participating in Arizona Restaurant Week beginning May 19.
Outside of his work in the food and beverage industry, Mr. Federico became a founding member of Chances for Children in 2008. Chances for Children support and inspire hope to the children of Haiti who have been separated from their parents.
