Denny?s Corporation announced the hiring of Pankaj Patra as Chief Digital and Technology Officer (CDTO). This is a newly created enterprise role that will include support for Denny?s and Keke?s. Patra will be responsible for accelerating the company?s capabilities across all specialties within the Digital, Technology and Information functions. Patra comes to Denny?s from Brinker International Inc., where he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, responsible for overseeing information technology and data security for the company and its restaurants brands.

Patra brings 25 years of experience as an innovative enterprise technology architect, digital strategist and information technology leader. Patra earned his undergraduate degree from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela and went on to attain his MBA from Southern Methodist University. He is a member of the Dallas chapter of the International Food and Beverage Technology Association.

Patra is based in Dallas and will assume the position effective October 30, 2023. Michael Furlow, Denny?s Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, will remain on staff through the end of the year to support the transition.