From the Mouse to the Head of the House: A Brookdale Executive Director’s Journey

Many of Brookdale’s associates have unlikely career paths before finally arriving into the world of senior living. Robert Denninger, executive director of Brookdale Colonial Park, started his winding career journey in the kitchens of New Orleans before finally arriving at his current destination at Brookdale.

Starting at the age of 15, Robert cultivated his passion for the culinary arts by working in the kitchens of famous restaurants throughout the city. He shared a kitchen with Paul Prudhomme, Emeril Lagassee, and other notable chefs. From there, he began working with large hotel chains before being recruited as Head Chef at the Brown Derby restaurant in Walt Disney World. 

At Disney, he helped facilitate the merger of the MGM and Animal Kingdom catering departments. This helped propel him into the role of Banquet Chef for all four Disneyworld theme parks.

“Disney was one of the greatest experiences of my career as a Chef,” said Robert. “I was the personal Chef for every famous person that ever visited Disney so I met a lot of actors, sports figures and TV stars. I was even able to cook for three presidents as well as other world leaders.”

He eventually was recruited into senior living and was tasked with helping to run dining in a brand-new community called Horizon Bay Hyde Park in Tampa. Robert pioneered a new dining concept featuring a rotating menu of seasonal specials. When Brookdale acquired Horizon Bay, Robert began training other dining directors and was eventually promoted to Regional Director of Dining Services. He transitioned into operations in 2016. This move ultimately led him to his current role at Brookdale Colonial Park.