Bloomin' Brands CEO Liz Smith earned $24.5 million compensation in 2012

Elizabeth Smith, chairwoman and CEO of Tampa-based restaurant chain owner Bloomin' Brands, received $24.5 million in total compensation in 2012, company proxy statements released this week indicate. Most of Smith's pay package — at or near a record level for a Tampa Bay-based public corporation —came in $22.5 million incentive and bonuses awarded for the company's financial success and its initial public offering attained in 2012. In 2011, Smith received $8.5 million in compensation. Bloomin' Brands is the parent company of Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, and Roy's.