Since joining Lessing’s Hospitality Group in 2014, Lawrence has been a key driver in
the company’s journey towards growth and innovation.

His role began with overseeing the operations of the franchise group, a responsibility that involved the strategic launch and management of nine Blaze Pizza locations. In this capacity, his focus on operational excellence and commitment to customer service were pivotal, leading these restaurants to rank as the top performers among all Blaze Pizza franchisees based on the brand’s OPS Metric.

Progressing to the role of executive vice president of the restaurant division,
Lawrence played a crucial role in expanding the group’s portfolio.

His tenure in this position was marked by significant achievements, most notably the introduction and development of Hatch, Lessing’s venture into the breakfast segment.

Under his stewardship, Hatch not only debuted successfully but also expanded with the opening of its second location in 2023.

Lawrence’s talent for business development was apparent across all divisions of Lessing’s Inc., where his efforts drove substantial growth and fostered continuous innovation.

In January 2024, Lawrence reached a new pinnacle in his career at Lessing’s
Hospitality Group by being appointed as the chief operating officer.

In this role, he brings a wealth of experience from the hospitality industry, applying his insights and strategic acumen to guide the company’s direction. His leadership in this position is characterized by a forward-thinking approach, balancing the company’s long-standing traditions with innovative strategies to navigate the dynamic landscape of the hospitality sector.

Lawrence’s background in hospitality was cultivated prior to his tenure at Lessing’s,
notably at Shake Shack.

There, he served as a manager at their flagship location in Manhattan’s Theater District, one of the brand’s most demanding and high-profile sites.

His tenure at Shake Shack was significant not only for the managerial experience he
gained but also for his role in the new restaurant opening team.

Lawrence was instrumental in launching Shake Shack’s initial ventures into Brooklyn, Long Island, and Philadelphia, showcasing his aptitude for managing and expanding operations in diverse markets.

Graduating from the University of Richmond, Lawrence earned his B.A. and honed his
leadership skills as the captain of their Division I golf team.

Complementing his professional life, Lawrence is actively engaged in community and
industry associations.

He serves on the executive committee of the New York State Golf Association and is a member of the Long Island Association’s Young Professionals Committee.

In 2019, Lawrence established the Learning and Development Department
at Lessing’s, a pivotal move to enhance training and career development opportunities
for employees.

Demonstrating a deep commitment to social responsibility, Lawrence
initiated a philanthropic gesture by donating 50% of sales from Hatch’s Fort Lauderdale
grand opening to Voices for Broward County, showcasing his dedication to community
service and setting a standard for corporate social responsibility.

Lawrence balances his professional success with a fulfilling personal life in Cold Spring
Harbor, where he lives with his wife Diana and their two children. His family life mirrors
the values he upholds professionally