The Indigo Road Hospitality Group (IRHG), which owns, operates, and manages restaurants and boutique hotels throughout the country, has appointed Christopher Amato to the newly created position of director of culture. His responsibilities include working alongside the company’s existing leaders to ensure they’re demonstrating and upholding IRHG’s standards of internal hospitality, while also introducing these foundations to new IRHG employees. 

“Culture has been a key component of Indigo Road’s business strategy from the start,” says Steve Palmer, founder and chief visionary officer of IRHG. “As we continue to grow, we need more focus on creating a culture that develops successful restaurants and hotels. When we decided it was time to create a director of culture position, we knew it had to be someone who not only understands our culture but lives it. Chris checks all the boxes, and we’re looking forward to his contributions to improving our amazing culture.” 

Amato first joined the IRHG in 2015, serving as a vital member of O-Ku Atlanta’s opening team. In 2017, he moved to open another Indigo Road restaurant, where he took on the role of assistant general manager. Shortly after that, Amato moved into the general manager position, overseeing day-to-day operations and set an example of professional, comforting, and charismatic hospitality. Eventually, he returned to his roots, rejoining the O-Ku Atlanta team as general manager in early April 2020, assisting the restaurant in reopening its doors and welcoming patrons back to their beloved West Midtown sushi spot.  

Amato’s early interest in food stemmed from his family’s Italian heritage, which ultimately inspired him to pursue a career in the restaurant and hospitality industry. In 2013, he graduated from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI with degrees in culinary arts and food service management. Following graduation, Amato worked at Jean-George’s Spice Market in New York City before relocating to Atlanta and joining Ford Fry’s team. During his tenure with Fry, Chris worked at The Optimist prior to opening St. Cecilia in Buckhead and Superica (previously The El Felix) in Alpharetta’s Avalon development.  

Amato enjoys working on his fitness, tending to his houseplants, listening to podcasts, and caring for his two pit bulls, Daniel and Duke.

IRHG also recently made the following promotions: 

• Stephanie Janow as benefits director.  
• Christine Kennedy as assistant director of HR.  
• Alison Maniccia as employment manager.  

IRHG is hiring for its growing family of restaurants and hotels throughout the U.S.