Professional Summary
Operations leader with extraordinary rise from fry cook to Area Director overseeing 5-7 locations across 12 years at Applebee's. Adept at leveraging modern technology to amplify traditional management strengths, with proven success reducing turnover by 25% and driving operational excellence across multi-million dollar portfolios. Serial entrepreneur who launched and scaled niche brands while maintaining excellence in multi-unit management and operational innovation. Positioned to deliver immediate impact in operations leadership roles requiring both strategic vision and practical execution.
Core Competencies
Multi-Unit P&L Management ($15 Million)
Strategic Planning & Operational Excellence
Talent Development & Succession Planning
Technology Integration & Process Innovation
Turnaround Leadership & Change Management
Data-Driven Decision Making & Analytics
Professional Experience
Showroom Manager
Lovesac
Wauwatosa, WI | Oct 2024 – Present
- Transformed underperforming showroom into top performer achieving 100% of sales goals YTD, implementing custom analytics tools and accountability frameworks that improved team performance metrics within 90 days
- Mastered complex product knowledge rapidly while adapting communication style to connect with every customer type
Area Director
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
Wisconsin | Jul 2022 – Oct 2024
- Directed operations for 5-7 locations generating $15 million annually with 200+ team members, achieving 12-year progression from frontline to senior management in multi-unit operations
- Delivered 25% reduction in turnover across portfolio through data-driven retention strategies and leadership development programs informed by frontline experience
- Served dual role on IT team, partnering with VP, project manager, and system administrator to modernize outdated systems, managing network infrastructure across sites, and designating one location as technology sandbox for pilot programs
- Developed talent pipeline resulting in 4 GM promotions and cross-functional advancement (operations to IT), building bench strength for sustainable growth
- Maintained operational KPIs above company standards through 3 executive transitions, serving as stabilizing force while implementing new systems and processes enterprise-wide
General Manager
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
West Milwaukee, WI | Feb 2019 – Jul 2022
- Earned "Rookie of the Year" GM recognition while managing $3.5 million P&L after progressive 6-year advancement through multiple operational roles
- Orchestrated turnaround of company's worst-performing unit (Miller Park Way) to #1 regional sales growth for two consecutive years through operational restructuring and team development
- Built high-performing team by developing internal talent pipeline—promoting multiple frontline employees to management—while consistently exceeding financial targets and budget controls
Founder
Aqua Aquatiks
2025 – Present
- Founded and scaled specialized aquaculture venture utilizing AI-powered tools for business development, inventory management, and customer acquisition strategies
- Developed complete aquaculture operation including automated life support systems, water quality protocols, and breakthrough shipping methods that significantly improved coral survival rates
Founder & Host
Musky Magnet Lures
2015 – 2019
- Founded niche manufacturing and media brand, building community of 5,000+ customers through strategic expo participation and content marketing
- Established "Musky Talk Mondays" podcast as early market entrant, demonstrating ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities
Certifications & Licenses
• ServSafe Certified
• Licensed Bartender (Wisconsin)
• Google IT Support Professional Certificate
Personal & Community
Proud father and Milwaukee-area homeowner committed to work-life integration and community involvement. Annual volunteer at Wisconsin Veterans Fishing Camp, combining passion for outdoor recreation with service to those who served. Avid angler and outdoor enthusiast who applies the patience and strategy of fishing to business leadership.