Mina Haque, a seasoned attorney with an extensive legal background, has recently become the first female CEO of Tony Roma’s, an iconic restaurant chain known for its signature ribs. Haque’s journey to her present position shows her unique approach to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) that combines her expertise in corporate law with insights gained during her time in the US Department of Justice (DOJ).
Blending Legal Expertise and Industry Insight
Haque, the founder and principal attorney of Washington, DC-based Law Office of Mohaimina Haque PLLC, has created a distinguished career in the legal field spanning immigration, product liability, and high-stakes M&A. Her unique strategy is a blend of transactional and litigation law that helped her stand out in the competitive legal field. Haque’s recent success with Tony Roma’s acquisition shows the efficacy of her approach, leading to her role as interim and then permanent CEO.
Haque emphasized the need for both legal and financial diligence in her M&A strategy. With this, she hints at the importance of analyzing every company’s operations. “Transactions combine comprehensive legal due diligence with a holistic understanding of the business fundamentals,” she noted.
This rigorous assessment includes an evaluation of corporate governance, operational processes, financial health, and human capital, as these are crucial components in any M&A venture. According to Haque, this meticulous review uncovers both potential risks and strategic opportunities for the acquiring firm, creating a solid foundation for post-merger integration.
DOJ Experience Leading to M&A Success
Working at the DOJ’s Antitrust Division has influenced Haque’s career. She was crucial in several high-profile merger reviews and investigations, including the landmark American Airlines-US Airways case. Haque’s antitrust expertise became a defining feature of her M&A practice, setting her apart from larger firms that typically dominate mega-merger deals. She brought this federal-level rigor to middle-market transactions like Tony Roma’s acquisition.
“The combination of federal antitrust experience and private practice gives me a distinct perspective,” Haque explained, noting how her experience enables her to address compliance and strategic goals for her clients. This dual focus helped her lead the legal due diligence for Tony Roma’s acquisition, eventually earning her a seat as the company’s trusted advisor and, later, CEO.
From Legal Counsel to Trusted Business Leader
Haque’s elevation to the position of CEO was a gradual and organic process. As she led the due diligence efforts, she gained an in-depth understanding of Tony Roma’s operations and long-term potential. Haque’s strategic contributions during this phase impressed the Board, leading to her appointment as outside general counsel and advisor.
She shared, “the thoroughness of my work and strategic approach during this process earned the acquirer’s confidence.”
When Tony Roma’s sought a visionary leader to steer the company forward, Haque’s ability to make business judgments made her the ideal candidate. Her shift from legal advisor to CEO reflects her more profound understanding of the brand’s challenges and opportunities.
Vision for Tony Roma’s
Now, as the CEO, Haque has set an ambitious strategic agenda for Tony Roma’s, focusing on four key areas: strategic franchise expansion, menu innovation, cost optimization, and brand revitalization. These initiatives aim to honor the brand’s legacy while modernizing its offerings.
“These key pillars will include streamlining our menus while preserving iconic dishes, making ownership more accessible to qualified operators and reestablishing Tony Roma’s as a household name by modernizing our marketing while honoring our heritage,” Haque explained.
Balancing Professional Success With Family Life
While leading a major restaurant chain and running her law firm, Haque also embraces the role of a dedicated mother. She credits technology and her supportive husband, Ehteshamul Haque, for helping her juggle her responsibilities effectively.
The shift to remote work has been instrumental, allowing her to handle professional matters from home or while picking up her children. “These moments, which some might see as challenging, I cherish because they allow me to remain present in my children’s lives,” Haque said.
Empowering Other Attorneys Through Virtual Training
Haque’s drive to empower others continues with her legal and corporate achievements. She and her husband are launching a virtual training program to support attorneys seeking to establish their practices. This course draws on their combined experiences in balancing law and family life, offering actionable strategies for managing a law firm while maintaining work-life balance.
“Our goal is to empower other attorneys to create the same kind of flexible, successful practice,” Haque concluded.
