CHRIS WILLIAMS
Lawrenceville,GA
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, specializing in training program design and operational strategy. Achieved significant sales growth through effective talent management and cross-departmental collaboration. Skilled in project management and conflict resolution, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Sr. Director, Training & Operations Services
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Atlanta, Georgia
03.2024 - Current
- Designed and implemented core training programs, enhancing engagement and consistency across locations.
- Directed Operations Services to drive initiatives for corporate and franchise locations.
- Led enterprise-wide training functions, including New Restaurant Openings and Management Development.
- Championed 'Walk-On’s Way' cultural framework, aligning values with operational excellence.
- Developed regional training programs and career path platforms adopted system-wide.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and boost efficiency.
- Mentored senior management on leadership skills and operational best practices.
- Directed strategic initiatives to enhance organizational performance and stimulate growth.
Director of Training & New Restaurant Openings
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Atlanta, Georgia
10.2023 - 03.2024
- Developed comprehensive training programs for staff across multiple locations.
- Implemented performance metrics to assess training effectiveness and employee engagement.
- Facilitated workshops and seminars to enhance team communication and leadership skills.
- Evaluated training materials to align with company standards and operational goals.
- Oversaw resource allocation to optimize operational efficiency and team productivity.
- Championed process improvements to streamline workflows and reduce bottlenecks.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
Director of Core Training & Brand Culture
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Atlanta, Georgia
09.2022 - 10.2023
- Developed policies and procedures to ensure compliance with corporate standards.
- Collaborated with senior leadership to set long-term objectives for the company.
- Created detailed plans outlining timelines, goals, budgets, staffing needs and other requirements for projects.
- Developed comprehensive training programs for diverse employee roles across the organization.
- Facilitated workshops to enhance team collaboration and communication skills.
- Collaborated with department heads to identify training needs and develop targeted solutions.
- Developed and implemented training programs to enhance team collaboration.
- Collaborated with leadership to promote positive organizational change.
- Facilitated workshops focusing on conflict resolution and team dynamics.
- Championed recognition programs celebrating employee contributions and achievements.
- Engaged employees in feedback processes to enhance workplace environment.
Director of Brand Culture
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
05.2021 - 09.2022
- Managed brand guidelines to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
- Facilitated workshops to educate teams on brand values and strategic initiatives.
- Oversaw brand campaigns from conception through execution, ensuring alignment with objectives.
- Designed brand guidelines and standards to ensure consistency across all channels.
- Worked closely with cross-functional teams including sales, marketing, operations, finance, legal and IT departments to ensure consistent messaging across all departments.
- Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
- Coordinated talent development programs aligned with company strategic goals.
- Facilitated training sessions to enhance employee skills and knowledge.
- Developed onboarding materials for new hires to ensure smooth transitions.
Core Training Manager
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
12.2019 - 05.2021
- Developed and implemented customized culinary training programs for new hires.
- Organized training sessions for staff members on new systems or processes.
- Facilitated hands-on training sessions to enhance service skills and product knowledge.
- Coordinated ongoing training workshops focusing on customer service excellence and operational efficiency.
- Evaluated training effectiveness through feedback and assessments to improve future sessions.
- Mentored team leaders in coaching techniques to foster employee development and engagement.
- Analyzed feedback from trainees regarding course content, structure, materials used in order to make improvements where needed.
General Manager
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Denham Springs, Louisiana
04.2017 - 12.2019
- Managed staff scheduling and maintained optimal labor levels for service needs.
- Oversaw inventory management and controlled food and beverage costs effectively.
- Implemented training programs to enhance staff performance and guest satisfaction.
- Developed marketing strategies to increase restaurant visibility and customer engagement.
- Maintained compliance with health and safety regulations in all operational areas.
- Analyzed sales reports to identify trends and adjust operational strategies accordingly.
- Fostered a positive work environment through effective communication and team-building activities.
- Motivated staff through acknowledgment of hard work, achievements and instilling accountability while leading by example.
- Managed busy and highly popular restaurant with professional, well-trained staff.
- Analyzed sales figures and trends to develop sales strategies that maximize profits.
- Established restaurant business plan by surveying restaurant demands, identifying and evaluating competitors and preparing financial and sales projections.
Multi-Unit Managing Partner
Chili’s Grill & Bar
01.2003 - 01.2017
- Oversaw full restaurant operations, including financial management, payroll, facilities, inventory control, and team development.
- Delivered consistent business results through strategic leadership, operational oversight, and a focus on guest experience.
- Built and maintained high-performing teams, driving sales growth, cost control, and profitability in a competitive market.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) - Organizational Leadership
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
01.2019
Skills
- Leadership development and talent management
- Operational strategy
- Training program design
- Brand culture integration
- New restaurant openings
- Learning management systems
- Team building and coaching
- Microsoft Office proficiency
- Adobe software expertise
- Curriculum development
- Brand alignment strategies
- Change management practices
- Cross-departmental collaboration
- Project management skills
- Strategic planning initiatives
- Conflict resolution techniques
Timeline
Sr. Director, Training & Operations Services
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
03.2024 - Current
Director of Training & New Restaurant Openings
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
10.2023 - 03.2024
Director of Core Training & Brand Culture
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
09.2022 - 10.2023
Director of Brand Culture
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
05.2021 - 09.2022
Core Training Manager
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
12.2019 - 05.2021
General Manager
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
04.2017 - 12.2019
Multi-Unit Managing Partner
Chili’s Grill & Bar
01.2003 - 01.2017
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) - Organizational Leadership
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY