Company adds two C-level executives

MANATEE COUNTY — First Watch, the fast-growing breakfast-brunch-lunch chain, added two C-level executives to its top management team.

Laura Sorensen was named Chief People Officer, a newly created role, while Eric Hartman was named new Chief Development Officer, according to a statement.

Sorensen, with more than 20 years of human resources experience, was previously a member of the executive team and the senior vice president of Human Resources for Darden's LongHorn Steakhouse. Before that she managed human resources for retail brands such as Chico's and Burdines. At First Watch, Sorensen will oversee staffing and people development, training, employee relations, diversity and strategic planning, the release states.