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Suffolk’s Ben Mayo was named a finalist for the annual Texas Roadhouse Managing Partner of the Year award, which is the company’s highest honor.

He and 18 others were chosen from a pool of nearly 600 restaurant operators.

“These 19 managing partners are truly the best of the best,” said Texas Roadhouse CEO Jerry Morgan. “I’m so proud of Ben for his commitment to providing legendary food and legendary service to our guests.”

The award recognizes the managing partner who “best displays characteristics of an operational leader.” The finalists will be judged on seven criteria: Legendary Food, Legendary Service, Legendary Marketing, Legendary Culture, Legendary People, Legendary Profits and Legendary Pride and Passion.

In April, the Managing Partner of the Year will be announced at the company’s annual conference in Orlando. The winner will receive a new car, a check for $30,000, a lead crystal replica of a Texas Roadhouse restaurant, a Managing Partner of the Year ring, and a gold belt buckle.

For the past 15 years, Ben advanced his career throughout the company, working at Texas Roadhouse locations in Christiansburg, Virginia Beach, Chesterfield and Colonial Heights. He’s been managing partner of the Suffolk location since 2016.