LEBANON, Tenn. — Cammie Spillyards-Schaefer has joined Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in the newly created position of vice president of culinary. In her new role, Spillyards-Schaefer will oversee the restaurant chain’s culinary group, including menu strategy and culinary development, the company said.

Most recently, Spillyards-Schaefer was executive chef and vice president of culinary and menu strategy at Applebee’s, a role she assumed in March 2016. Before that, she was vice president of R&D and innovation for Outback Steakhouse parent Bloomin’ Brands Inc. and director of product innovation for Chili’s Grill & Bar.

Additionally, Spillyards-Schaefer previously was a private chef and owned two restaurants. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.