To mark Women’s History Month, we are featuring Lori Carver, President and CEO of Mazzio’s in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a leader known not only for operational excellence, but for building a culture grounded in mentorship, inclusion, and authenticity in a fast-changing industry. Through this conversation, she shares pivotal moments from her journey, lessons learned from mentors, and insights into what it means to lead with both heart and determination in the restaurant world.
Q&A With Mazzio’s President & CEO Lori Carver
1. Tell me about a decision or initiative at Mazzio’s that you are most proud of — not just because it was big for the business, but because it meant something deeply personal to you.
I chose to join the Mazzio’s team as CFO in 2012 because of the integrity and tenure of the leadership team, and … Mazzio’s was my favorite pizza place! After 5 years of navigating financial challenges and rebuilding processes, I was asked to consider stepping into the CEO position. It was not something I had ever contemplated, but it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I still get to spend time analyzing our finances, which is my happy place, but I also get to collaborate with every other leader in our company and help them reach their fullest potential. I am so proud of what our team is accomplishing together and am thankful for the opportunity to lead our company into the future.
2. Was there a woman (or person) in your career who opened a door for you that you will never forget? What did they do that stuck with you?
My mom is my biggest supporter and taught me early in life that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to do. She worked full-time while taking care of our family, and showed us how to manage responsibilities and always be present in the moment. Our lives can get busy so fast, but being intentional with our time is what is most important in succeeding in our careers and our personal lives.
3. What is one “stretch assignment” you think more people should ask for early in their careers?
Volunteering to lead a team project is a wonderful way to show that you are seeking growth opportunities and are willing to put in the work. Managing project timelines, leading team meetings, and assisting team members when they need direction will boost your leadership skills quickly and set you up for future successes. Proactively seeking these assignments, even though they may seem intimidating, will be one of the best ways to stretch yourself in your new career.
4. What boundary (or boundaries) have you learned to set to protect your energy — and how has that actually made you better at your job?
It is easy, as a leader, to allow work to take over all of our time because we have a passion for what we do and we want to do it well. However, family time and serving the community are just as important, and we need those interactions to give us a better perspective at work. I teach preschool children’s choir at church one evening a week, and it brings me such joy to see their faces light up when we sing. I love playing tennis after a busy day, and serving on church committees and our school board are wonderful ways to give back to organizations that have been a special part of my life for so long. Finding fulfillment in all areas of our lives makes us better leaders at work, and setting boundaries on our work time is a healthy way to ensure that we find the best balance for each day.
5. What unique strengths do you think women bring to restaurants and franchising that the industry underestimates?
At Mazzio’s, we have many women in senior leadership roles with a keen understanding of our guests and a genuine appreciation for the development of our team members. Many dining decisions for families are made by moms, and our female leaders can offer a personal perspective on how to best reach those moms and exceed their expectations. We have seen an increasing number of women promoted into general manager roles in our restaurants, and I think having female mentors on our leadership team has had a significant impact on those decisions.
6 Rapid Fire Questions
- A leadership “green flag” you notice right away in people you hire or do business with. Willingness to take on any challenge without hesitation.
- Biggest leadership pet peeve. Someone who refuses to ever admit they are wrong. We all make mistakes, and owning those mistakes is incredibly important to earn the respect of your team.
- Go‑to meal at Mazzio’s? Thin-crust pepperoni & pineapple pizza
- The best advice a mentor ever gave you, or a favorite quote. My sister gave me a sign years ago that says “work hard and be nice,” and it still hangs in my office. Focusing on those two truths can take you a long way as a leader.
- A leadership lesson you learned the hard way. Not everyone who says “trust me” should really be trusted. It is important to challenge others to prove themselves when your gut tells you that something may not be right.
- When dining out, what is your preferred beverage? Unsweet iced tea for sure!
Closing Thoughts
At GBQ, we believe stories like these highlight what makes the restaurant industry so dynamic — the people at the table. Leaders like Lori remind us that growth, resilience, and empathy are not just leadership qualities. They are the ingredients that turn challenges into opportunities.
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the women shaping the future of hospitality, one decision (and one Mazzio’s slice) at a time.
By Kari Maue, CPA, Partner, Assurance & Advisory
