Everyone Is Welcome to a Seat at Our Table
Our History Shapes Our Commitment
When Bill Darden opened his first restaurant in 1938, he employed anyone willing to work hard, work smart and grow with the company – without regard to race, gender or background. We are strengthened by a diversity of cultures, perspectives, backgrounds and ideas. We honor each other’s heritage and uniqueness.
Workplace Diversity
Every team member matters and owns a stake in our success. We celebrate what makes each team member unique and are proud that all levels of our team reflect the diversity of our industry and communities we serve.
Our Team (as of FY2026)
58% of our hourly team members are women
56% of our hourly team members are members of racial and ethnic minority groups
38% of leadership across our restaurants and support center teams are members of racial and ethnic minority groups
44% of leadership across our restaurants and support center teams are women
61% of our Executive Leadership is comprised of members of racial and ethnic minority groups and/or women
33% of our Board of Directors are women
Talent Development
We focus on talent development for all our team members and recognize the value of gaining exposure to learning experiences. Our approach is all-inclusive, ensuring we identify talent of all cultural backgrounds to attend development opportunities. Each year, Darden sponsors attendance to talent development conferences for high-potential leaders. We remain focused on educating and empowering attendees of all backgrounds to gain diverse insights and positive exposure opportunities.
Executive Leadership Council (ELC)
The ELC Mid-Level Manager Symposium’s focus is to add value to the development of all talent and leadership across the lifecycle of their careers. Each year, Darden sponsors attendance of participants of all backgrounds to the Mid-Level Manager Symposium for high-potential leaders to gain valuable insights on career development.
Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance (MFHA)
MFHA aims to build culturally intelligent brands and leaders within the food and hospitality industry. As a founding member, Darden has been a partner of MFHA for more than 25 years, and our leaders have always been members of their Board of Representatives.
Out & Equal
Out & Equal’s focus is on learning and educating organizations about LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion and belonging. Each year, Darden sponsors attendance of participants of all backgrounds to the Workplace Summit for high-potential leaders as part of their development journey. This talent development experience is inclusive of all and empowers attendees of all backgrounds to gain an understanding of inclusive leadership.
Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF)
WFF is focused on advancing women leaders in the food industry. We have been long-time sponsors of WFF’s annual conference and leadership development workshops and our executives have served on the WFF Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
Workplace Inclusion
We strive to create an inclusive environment for our team members and guests. Our Employee Resource Groups support our efforts to ensure a welcoming environment where every team member matters and their unique perspectives are valued, heard and celebrated. These networks are inclusive and welcome team members of all backgrounds.
Darden African American Network | Sharing the Past, Building the Future
Our mission is to be a development champion for team members and Darden, positively impact Darden’s performance by serving as a proxy for the African American guest, and educate the Darden community about African American culture.
Darden Asian Network | Embracing Asian Cultures
Our mission is to develop a strong and engaged Asian American workforce while fostering an appreciation for their contributions to Darden and the community.
Darden Hispanic or Latin American Network | Many Cultures, One Vision
Our mission is to support and enrich the Hispanic and Latin American communities, establishing partnerships within and outside of Darden.
Darden Pride Network | Celebrating LGBTQ – Uniting All
Our mission is to leverage the contributions of the Darden LGBTQ community and Allies in a welcoming and inclusive environment to enhance the company’s diverse culture.
Darden Serve Network | Proud to Serve
Our mission is to develop, support, and recognize those who have served in the military and those who stand beside them, building camaraderie throughout the Darden family.
Darden Women’s Network | Inspiring & Connecting Women
Our mission is to recognize, encourage, strengthen and celebrate the unique perspectives, intelligence and leadership skills that women bring to the workplace, supporting Darden’s goal to be the full-service restaurant company of choice, now and for generations.