...NEW YORK (S&P Global Ratings) April 5, 2017--S&P Global Ratings said today that its rating and outlook on Brinker International Inc. are unaffected by the company's recent announcement of the resignation of Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Tom Edwards. Joe Taylor, a 17-year Brinker veteran who currently serves as Vice President for Investor Relations and Treasurer, will assume the role of interim CFO until a permanent successor is named. We view the breadth and depth of management as sufficient to manage a smooth and gradual transition to the new CFO and expect sound operational continuity. We think industry conditions will remain challenging for casual dining restaurants but also the company's operational strategy and financial policies within its control will remain consistent in the face of headwinds, including maintaining leverage in the low- to mid-3x range. Only a rating committee may determine a rating action and this report does not constitute a rating...
