Defining Our “Why”

At Bridge Restaurant Group, purpose drives everything we do. We had the opportunity to talk with our President and CEO of Bridge Restaurant Group, Tina Howell, to discuss the deeper mission behind our work.

What is your 'why'? What motivates you in your role?

"For me, it's all about impact. I'm motivated by seeing progress, not just in business, but in people’s lives. Whether it’s through mentorship, leadership, or simply providing an opportunity, I want to make a difference. It excites me when someone tells me that working with us helped them grow, develop new skills, or achieve a personal goal. That’s what keeps me going."

What role does Bridge Restaurant Group play in supporting its employees?

"We employ over 500 people, and while, yes, we fry chicken and serve the world flavor, it’s so much more than that. This is often the first job for many of our employees. We give them their first paycheck, their first exposure to workplace culture, and their first experience in financial independence. But we don’t stop there. We create a culture where people are mentored, guided, and given the tools they need to succeed, not just in this job, but in life."

What makes Bridge Restaurant Group different from other restaurant employers?

"It’s our culture. We’re not just a workplace where people clock in and out. We are a place where individuals grow. We encourage teamwork, accountability, and personal development. Employees who start as cashiers or cooks can move up to become managers, district leaders, and beyond. If they choose to move on to other opportunities, they leave with valuable skills and a strong foundation for success."

How does the success of the business impact employees?

"When we do well as a company, our employees benefit. Strong sales and efficient operations mean we can provide competitive wages, bonuses, training programs, and career advancement opportunities. But to get there, we need to operate with excellence. That’s why we emphasize quality service, teamwork, and leadership—because when our business thrives, our people thrive."

What message do you want employees and team members to take away from working with Bridge Restaurant Group?

"I want every person who walks through our doors to know that this isn’t just a job: it’s an opportunity. Whether they stay with us long-term or use this experience as a stepping stone, I want them to leave better than they came. Ethical, reliable, dependable, and supportive, those are the values we promote. We may not get everything perfect, but we always strive for excellence. We shoot for the moon, and wherever we land, it’s far beyond where we started."

Any final thoughts on your vision for the future?

"As a society, it’s easy to focus on the challenges we face. But instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, I choose to focus on what we can do to make things right. We succeed when we support one another. Bridge Restaurant Group exists to build that support system—so that every team member, customer, and community we serve can grow stronger together. That’s our mission. That’s our 'why.”

Tina Howell’s leadership is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to people. Under her guidance, Bridge Restaurant Group continues to be more than just a restaurant business—it is a launch pad for growth, mentorship, and meaningful impact. As Bridge moves forward, its purpose remains the same: to create opportunities, uplift communities, and empower every individual who walks through its doors. Because at Bridge, success isn’t just about business—it’s about building a future together.