Costa Mesa, California, United States, May 2026 — Kelly Ellerman has stepped into the role of President/COO at King’s Seafood Company, marking a major leadership milestone in her 26-year journey with the restaurant group.
Kelly has grown through multiple leadership roles at King’s Seafood Company, including Chief People Officer, Director, Human Resources, and Manager, Human Resources. Her long tenure reflects deep expertise in people leadership, restaurant operations, organizational culture, workforce strategy, and hospitality talent development.
Before joining King’s Seafood Company, Kelly served as Human Resources Manager at Nextlink Communications. She has also been actively associated with leading professional organizations including SHRM, The Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers, Black Box Intelligence, National Human Resources Association, and Association Hospitality Recruiting Executives.
With more than two decades of experience in hospitality leadership and human resources, Kelly brings strong institutional knowledge and people-first leadership to her expanded role.
About King’s Seafood Company
King’s Seafood Company, based in Southern California, owns and operates six restaurant concepts across five states and 23 locations, including King’s Fish House, Water Grill, Pier Burger, 555 East, Lou & Mickey’s, and Meat on Ocean. The company is known for elevated seafood dining, strong sourcing relationships, and a commitment to quality, crewmembers, guests, and communities.
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