Steve Dunn, a resident of Burlington and the owner of the Ponderosa Steakhouse in Florence, received the 2016 Pioneer Lifetime Achievement Award from Homestyle Dining LLC, which owns, operates and franchises the Ponderosa Steakhouse brand, as well as the Bonanza Steakhouse, Bonanza Steak & BBQ and Cole’s Backyard Grill restaurant concepts.
Dunn, who owns the Ponderosa Steakhouse at 8053 Holiday Place, was presented with the award at Homestyle Dining’s annual franchisee conference at the Belterra Resort.
Dunn, began his career with Ponderosa Steakhouse in 1972 at a restaurant in Dayton, Ohio, as a Manager. Within four months, he was promoted to the role of Executive Manager. Recognizing his strong training and operational skills, Dunn was promoted to a senior training instructor position, teaching new managers how to become stewards of the brand and operate successful restaurants.
His last role with the corporate office was as an Area Supervisor for the Dayton and then the Cincinnati markets. Dunn was then offered an executive position with one of the brand’s top franchisee groups.
Based on his success with the Ponderosa Steakhouse brand in various capacities, he opened his first Ponderosa Steakhouse and then joined forces with his Area Developer, Arnold Caddell, to acquire and operate additional restaurants.
“Steve is one-in-a-million, and represents the very best of the restaurant industry,” said Tom Sacco, CEO, Homestyle Dining, LLC. “He is dedicated to excellence and has helped Ponderosa Steakhouse remain a favorite, family dining destination all these years. We are proud and honored to present him with the 2016 Pioneer Lifetime Achievement Award.”
During the past 44 years, Dunn has also supported the Ponderosa Steakhouse brand, serving on various product development, operations and marketing committees. He is also a recipient of the company’s prestigious Circle of Excellence Award.