Des Hague has stepped down as CEO of concessionaire Centerplate after public criticism of his behavior involving dog abuse failed to be quieted by previous disciplinary actions.
This morning Centerplate’s board of directors announced that Chris Verros has been appointed to the role of acting president and chief executive officer, effective immediately, following the resignation of Desmond Hague from the company. Centerplate had sought to stem criticism of Hague’s dog abuse, caught on video, by placing him on probation. That was not enough.
“We want to reiterate that we do not condone nor would we ever overlook the abuse of animals,” said Joe O’Donnell, chairman of the board of directors for Centerplate. “Following an extended review of the incident involving Mr. Hague, I’d like to apologize for the distress that this situation has caused to so many; but also thank our employees, clients and guests who expressed their feelings about this incident. Their voices helped us to frame our deliberations during this very unusual and unfortunate set of circumstances.”
Chris Verros assumes the new role with more than 35 years of experience, including time as Chief Operating Officer for Centerplate since 2010. Prior to joining Centerplate, Verros was Executive Vice President of Boston Culinary Group and previously served as a Group President of Fine Host Corporation, following the 1993 acquisition of FanFare, Inc., a company he co-founded in 1986.
“I have been proud to work with Chris for more than 20 years, and feel that Centerplate is incredibly fortunate to have such a strong leader who can step into the role immediately,” O’Donnell added, “This past week has been very difficult for our company, our employees and our clients in particular, and I have no doubt that Chris’ experience, vision, integrity, and commitment to our values and mission will help us all move forward together.”
RELATED STORIES: Centerplate CEO censured after dog-abuse video surfaces; Centerplate CEO caught abusing dog; protests follow
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