Kona Grill Names Marci Rude VP Of Development

Kona Grill Inc., the 23-unit casual-dining grill and sushi chain, has appointed industry veteran Marci Rude to the new position of vice president of development.

Rude previously served as director of real estate for PetSmart and vice president of development for P.F. Chang's China Bistro. Earlier, Rude worked in real estate for Sonic Industries and Canyon Café.

Kona Grill had eliminated the development position in early 2010, but the company said Monday in a statement that "Rude will play an integral function as Kona Grill ramps up its restaurant opening strategy."

"Marci's extensive business development experience, particularly the vital role she served in P.F. Chang's critical phase of expansion, will play a key role as we execute our growth strategy," said Kona Grill president and chief executive Mike Nahkunst.

Kona Grill has units in 16 states.

Contact Ron Ruggless at ronald.ruggless@penton.com.
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