Ryan Smith
Kennesaw
Summary
Dynamic Culinary Manager with a proven track record at Chilis Grille and Bar, excelling in expense management and talent development. Achieved a remarkable reduction in food cost variance, generating significant monthly savings. Adept at innovative issue resolution and fostering strong interpersonal communication to enhance team performance and operational efficiency.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Culinary Manager
Chilis Grille and Bar
11.2021 - 01.2026
- Managed day-to-day operations including scheduling, purchasing, vendor coordination, and compliance with health and safety regulations
- Oversaw labor, food cost, and cost-of-sales budgets; consistently beat labor targets by 0.5–1% while maintaining adequate staffing levels
- Reduced food cost variance from 4% to 0.5% or less, generating over $5,000 in monthly savings
- Coordinated quarterly operational rollouts, ensuring timelines, staffing, and materials were aligned for successful execution
- Served as primary point of communication between leadership, vendors, and staff to resolve issues and keep operations on track
Kitchen Manager / General Manager
Gustons Grille and Tap
01.2019 - 10.2021
- Promoted to General Manager based on performance and leadership capability
- Managed ordering, inventory, vendor payments, and credit reconciliation
- Oversaw facility upkeep, operational standards, and team performance
- Coordinated multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining budget control and operational efficiency
- Led staff scheduling, training, and performance management
HOH Trainer
Chilis Grille and Bar
07.2015 - 01.2019
- Trained new team members on procedures, quality standards, and proper execution
- Verified incoming shipments and ensured accuracy of food and supply deliveries
- Supported management with inventory control and operational consistency
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science, Legal Studies
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GASkills
- Talent management
- Interpersonal communication
- Organizational skills
- Expense management
- Innovative issue resolution
Hobbies and Interests
- Outdoor activities including camping
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Shooting sports
GOAL
Goal is to transition from the Hospitality industry into the landscaping industry and prove myself though hard work and dedication.
Timeline
Culinary Manager
Chilis Grille and Bar
11.2021 - 01.2026
Kitchen Manager / General Manager
Gustons Grille and Tap
01.2019 - 10.2021
HOH Trainer
Chilis Grille and Bar
07.2015 - 01.2019
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science, Legal Studies
Kennesaw State University