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2026 Virginia C-Suite Awards: ALEX BERENTZEN
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, THOMPSON RESTAURANTS, RESTON
2026 Virginia C-Suite Awards: ALEX BERENTZEN
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, THOMPSON RESTAURANTS, RESTON
Since joining Thompson Restaurants in 2022, Berentzen has reduced companywide turnover from 110% to 68%. About 80% of open positions were filled through internal promotions. He seeks to hire the best and, once they’re on the payroll, he keeps a close eye on their progress to ensure a clear path to promotions.
Under his leadership, the Reston-based hospitality group’s restaurant count went from 29 to 68, with a target of 100 by the end of 2027. Online reviews for Thompson Restaurants increased from an average of 3.9 to 4.5. Revenue has doubled over the last three years. Additionally, Berentzen has helped to develop new Thompson Restaurants brands: Cut132, an Ohio steakhouse, and in Sterling, Ms. Peach’s Southern Kitchen and a reimagined Austin Grill.
A Netherlands native, Berentzen moved to the United States in 2003. Here, he has held leadership positions at companies including Wegmans Food Markets, King’s Seafood and Fox Restaurant Concepts before joining Thompson in Northern Virginia.
A certified sommelier, Berentzen often speaks at hospitality conferences, such as the National Restaurant Association Show.
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