A world traveler who understands the life-changing impact that hospitality can have, Alex Curley has a passion for creating guest experiences that are second to none.
Born in Greece, but with time spent in Africa, Germany, Australia, and Asia, his introduction to the restaurant world came in college. While studying psychology and mathematics at George Mason university and working towards an alternate career while holding down a restaurant job, hospitality chose him. Although not on the lookout for a hospitality career at the time, the longer he spent in the industry, the more he knew it was the place for him. This natural fit was meant to be and began what has become a 30 year plus career spanning the country and the globe.
Alex has played pivotal roles in a variety of companies, concepts, and operational models during that time. He was critical in the expansion of Richard Sandoval Restaurants, reaching 52 units and 28 concepts across 18 countries. He contributed significantly to the growth of Barcelona Wine Bar, opening restaurants in Washington D.C, Virgina, Atlanta, and Boston. He led teams at Southern Proper Hospitality, overseeing 23 units and 8 concepts in 7 states and is currently the Chief Operating Officer and partner for Palacios Murphy Hospitality. Joining the group with the goal of transitioning the company from legacy to growth brand while maintaining a deep and rich culture, he has driven a growth strategy that has doubled the company volume in 3 years.
Chosen by Nation’s Restaurant News as one of the most influential restaurant executives of 2020, Alex embodies a leadership style that invests deeply in the personal and professional growth and development of best-in-class teams, while embracing true and unconditionally hospitable guest experiences, all supported by world class operational structure and strategy.
Through his tenure, Alex has successfully recruited, retained and developed teams, redesigned systems and recalibrated operations in ways that increase his restaurants’ net profits and create enhanced guest experiences, leading to the exceeded expectations of all involved.
Away from the restaurants, he enjoys spending time with his wife Jessica and children Alexa, Connor, and Jack and is very active in youth sports, coaching baseball year-round.
