Chelsea Gillis
Seattle,WA
Summary
Accomplished Food & Beverage and Hospitality leader with a proven record of elevating client experiences, driving operational excellence, and accelerating revenue growth across high‑volume, fast‑paced environments. Recognized for building engaged, high‑performing teams and strengthening client partnerships through strategic communication and service‑focused leadership. Brings deep expertise in business development, financial oversight, and large‑scale event operations. Seeking a long‑term leadership role where disciplined management, innovation, and a commitment to exceptional service can contribute to sustained organizational success.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Catering Director
Chartwells
Seattle, WA
09.2024 - Current
- Provide strategic leadership for the catering division, overseeing revenue performance, team development, and client satisfaction. Direct high-volume operations with a focus on efficiency, service quality, and financial accountability.
- Lead and grow $2.5M in annual catering revenue
- Manage, mentor, and develop a team of catering managers and supervisors
- Strengthen client relationships through proactive communication and tailored service solutions
- Ensure flawless event execution through detailed planning and operational coordination
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and cost-control strategies to maximize profitability
- Introduce process improvements that enhance workflow, service standards, and guest experience
General Manager
Sodexo Live! @ Seattle Aquarium
Seattle, WA
05.2022 - 12.2023
- Directed all food & beverage operations, including a full-service café and a high-volume private events program. Oversaw financial performance, guest experience, and a team of managers while driving operational consistency and business growth.
- Led operations generating $3.0 M in annual revenue
- Managed budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to support organizational goals
- Oversaw inventory, purchasing, and asset management with strong cost controls
- Developed and coached management teams, improving retention and performance
- Delivered quarterly business reviews and strategic updates to clients and stakeholders
- Leveraged guest feedback and sales insights to refine service offerings and increase loyalty
Catering & Venue Sales Director
Sodexo Live! @ Seattle Aquarium
Seattle, WA
01.2015 - 04.2022
- Oversaw venue and catering sales, client engagement, and event execution for a high-demand waterfront venue. Consistently delivered revenue growth through strategic selling and exceptional service.
- Managed $2.5M in annual private event sales
- Led and developed a team of 2–3 Event Coordinators
- Conducted coaching, performance evaluations, and ongoing training
- Achieved 2–5% year-over-year revenue growth through targeted sales strategies
- Led site tours, proposals, and contract negotiations with clients and partners
- Managed invoicing, payments, revenue reporting, and forecasting
- Built long-term client relationships resulting in repeat business and referrals
- Coordinated event production schedules across multiple departments to ensure seamless execution
Operations Supervisor
Sodexo Live! @ Seattle Aquarium
Seattle, WA
03.2009 - 12.2014
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficient service delivery, staff performance, and adherence to safety and quality standards.
- Managed scheduling, training, and performance evaluations for frontline teams
- Oversaw inventory, purchasing, and cost analysis
- Ensured compliance with food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety regulations
- Implemented operational improvements that increased efficiency and service consistency
Wedding Venue Coordinator
Waterways Cruises & Events
Seattle
01.2005 - 01.2009
- Guided wedding clients through planning and execution, ensuring seamless, memorable events aboard luxury vessels.
- Developed a comprehensive wedding planning checklist to streamline the client experience
- Implemented marketing initiatives that increased venue visibility and event bookings
Education
GED -
Bellingham Technical College
Skills
- Food Service Operations
- Client & Stakeholder Relationships
- Leadership focused on Business Development
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- High-Volume Service Execution
- Process Optimization
- Vendor Partnerships
Timeline
Catering Director
Chartwells
09.2024 - Current
General Manager
Sodexo Live! @ Seattle Aquarium
05.2022 - 12.2023
Catering & Venue Sales Director
Sodexo Live! @ Seattle Aquarium
01.2015 - 04.2022
Operations Supervisor
Sodexo Live! @ Seattle Aquarium
03.2009 - 12.2014
Wedding Venue Coordinator
Waterways Cruises & Events
01.2005 - 01.2009
GED -
Bellingham Technical College