Wirta Hospitality, owner of Sequim’s Black Bear Diner, 1471 E Washington St., has hired two new managers.

Shayna Mayen is the new General Manager in Training as current General Manager Linda Donaghay prepares to retire in May after being with the diner since it opened more than a decade ago. Eric Hicks was also hired as the new Assistant General Manager.

“I can’t think of two managers better suited to take over the helm of my baby than Shayna and Eric,” Donaghay said.

Mayen brings culinary and administrative experience from Alchemy Bistro & Wine Bar in Port Townsend, and New Day Eatery in Port Angeles, while Hicks has 30 years of restaurant experience, including one of the first Bob’s Burger and Brews in Washington and the Marlins’ Cafe in Bellingham.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to join the camaraderie of this fantastic team,” Mayen said.

Hicks added, “I’m looking forward to being a part of the Black Bear Diner family. My goals are to be a supportive and creative leader in the kitchen.”

Wirta Hospitality CEO Bret Wirta said, “(Donaghay) will be big shoes to fill, but I feel fortunate to have two new managers with solid restaurant experience who complement each other so well.

“While these are challenging times for the restaurant business, especially for a busy diner such as ours, I’m confident that Shayna and Eric will do a fantastic job navigating our Black Bear Diner into a bright future,” he said.

For more about Sequim Black Bear Diner, call (360) 504-2950 or visit blackbeardiner.com/location/sequim.