Dave & Buster’s names CFO Darin Harper CEO as Tarun Lal retires
PLAY•CEO transition
Dave & Buster’s CEO Tarun Lal retired effective Aug. 3, 2026, citing a decision to spend more time with family.
CFO Darin Harper was appointed CEO effective the same date; he joined as CFO in June 2024, bringing nearly 30 years in entertainment and restaurant companies.
Advisory and interim finance plans
Lal will advise the company through at least the end of fiscal 2027 to support the leadership transition.
Head of Entertainment Finance, Investor Relations and Treasurer Cory Hatton will serve as interim CFO during the search for a permanent replacement.




