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Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc. has announced the appointment of Tarun Lal as its new Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors, effective July 14, 2025. Lal steps into the role following a strategic leadership search and is expected to spearhead the company’s next phase of growth and global expansion.
Lal joins the entertainment and dining giant after more than 25 years at Yum! Brands, where he most recently served as President of KFC U.S. He previously held senior roles including Global Chief Operating Officer for KFC and Managing Director for the brand across emerging markets such as the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, India, and Pakistan—regions where he successfully led brand expansion, digital transformation, and operational performance.
“After a careful and comprehensive search, the Board is thrilled to announce Tarun as our next CEO,” said Kevin Sheehan, Chairman of the Board and Interim CEO. “He is a talented leader and seasoned operator with a proven ability to grow and transform businesses. We are confident he will deliver immediate impact and long-term value for our shareholders.”
In his first public remarks as CEO, Lal said, “I am truly honored to join this incredibly talented team. I look forward to working with our people and the Board to deepen our guest connections and accelerate growth. Dave & Buster’s has a unique brand and tremendous potential—I’m excited to help unlock it.”
The leadership change comes as Dave & Buster’s, founded in 1982 and headquartered in Texas, looks to strengthen its dual-brand portfolio and broaden its footprint. The company currently operates 236 locations across North America, including 175 Dave & Buster’s stores in 43 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, and 61 Main Event centers in 22 states. Main Event targets families with offerings like bowling, laser tag, and virtual reality, complementing Dave & Buster’s more adult-focused mix of dining, gaming, and entertainment.
Lal’s appointment signals a new chapter for the company, which is aiming to enhance operations, grow internationally, and further integrate digital and experiential elements across its venues.
The Board expressed strong confidence that under Lal’s leadership, Dave & Buster’s is well-positioned to accelerate its strategic priorities and deliver sustained value to customers, employees, and investors alike.
