Clyde Lawson
Houston,TX
Summary
Dynamic project manager with a proven track record at Salata Salad Kitchen, excelling in training program development and stakeholder engagement. Expertise in Microsoft Office and quality control has enabled successful leadership of cross-functional teams, consistently delivering projects on time. Strong partnerships have been cultivated through effective communication and collaboration, while mentoring junior staff has improved overall operational efficiency. Committed to driving results and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within teams.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Development Strategy/NRO Manager
Salata Salad Kitchen
Houston, TX
04.2023 - 10.2025
- Oversaw project execution by coordinating efforts across multiple departments, ensuring adherence to deadlines and budgetary limits.
- Developed and implemented communication plans for stakeholders, ensuring alignment with project goals and fostering clear understanding of expectations.
- Crafted detailed project plans to ensure clarity in task allocation and adherence to timelines.
- Facilitated discussions during team meetings to evaluate progress and identify solutions to challenges.
- Conducted risk analysis and devised proactive strategies to address potential challenges.
- Guided and developed junior project managers in best practices to strengthen team performance.
- Cultivated and strengthened partnerships with teams, vendors, and contractors.
- Forecasted and monitored multiple project timelines and personnel performance to optimize resource allocation and cost management.
- Coordinated training programs for new franchisees on operational procedures.
- Oversaw franchisee relationships to provide ongoing support and ensure adherence to compliance requirements.
- Conducted regular performance assessments of franchise operations and provided feedback.
- Guided franchisees in prospecting and securing prime locations for storefront restaurants.
- Evaluated architectural plans and specifications to mitigate risks prior to construction commencement.
Trainer/Training Manager
Salata Salad Kitchen
Houston, TX
04.2017 - 04.2023
- Managed corporate training team and organized management training programs to ensure effective skill development.
- Trained management personnel on front-of-house and back-of-house operations, ensuring effective service delivery.
- Organized and conducted training for over 30 new restaurant openings to equip staff with necessary operational skills.
- Trained and certified franchise trainers, equipping them with essential skills to support franchisee groups.
- Trained newly hired top talent to fill key positions and maximize productivity.
- Developed training materials (SOPs, video content, LMS modules) to enhance staff knowledge and support continuous learning.
- Create Training Schedules for Management Personnel and New Restaurant Openings
Shift Manager
McDonald's Restaurant
Houston, TX
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Supervised daily operations to ensure efficient service delivery and guest satisfaction.
- Trained and mentored team members on operational procedures and customer service standards.
- Excelled in every store position and regularly backed up front-line staff.
Catering Coordinator/Manager
Panera Bread
Houston, TX
04.2013 - 11.2015
- Managed event planning for corporate and private events of up to 500 guests, streamlining logistics and enhancing guest experiences.
- Coordinated catering orders for corporate events and gatherings, ensuring client satisfaction and timely execution.
- Developed relationships with clients to understand catering needs, enabling tailored service and repeat business.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to create customized menu options.
- Scheduled and organized staff for catering events and activities.
- Managed inventory and ensured timely delivery of catering supplies.
- Maintained compliance with food safety regulations and standards.
- Assisted in training new team members on catering procedures.
- Processed invoices for payment after completion of each event.
Swamper/Laborer
Sunland Construction
Livingston, TX
08.2012 - 03.2013
- Directed crane and hoisting operators on precise movements, facilitating safe and efficient operations.
- Collaborated with team members to load and unload construction equipment and materials, enhancing workflow and support.
- Organized worksite to uphold safety standards and streamline project execution.
- Followed safety protocols to prevent accidents and maintain compliance on-site.
- Performed physical activities requiring heavy lifting, walking and standing for long periods of time.
Guest Service Agent
Comfort Suites
Huntsville, TX
01.2009 - 08.2011
- Managed guest check-ins and check-outs efficiently using hotel management software.
- Coordinated and executed customer service activities to enhance guest satisfaction.
- Coordinated business packages and VIP arrangements, worked with travel agents and other hospitality industry professionals.
- Processed payments accurately and managed cash drawer throughout shifts.
- Compiled occupancy reports and ten-day forecasts to inform management decisions.
Education
No Degree - Mass Communications
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TXHigh School Diploma -
Alief Hastings High School
Houston, TX01-2005
Skills
- Project Management
- Budget management
- Quality Control
- Training program development
- MicroSoft Planner
- SmartSheets
- Microsoft Office
- CRM software proficiency
- Record Keeping
Affiliations
- Project Management Institute Houston Chapter 2023-Present
- Council of Hotels and Restaurant Trainers 2021-2024
- Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., 2008-Present
Certification
- PMP - Project Management Professional
Timeline
Director of Development Strategy/NRO Manager
Salata Salad Kitchen
04.2023 - 10.2025
Trainer/Training Manager
Salata Salad Kitchen
04.2017 - 04.2023
Shift Manager
McDonald's Restaurant
01.2016 - 01.2017
Catering Coordinator/Manager
Panera Bread
04.2013 - 11.2015
Swamper/Laborer
Sunland Construction
08.2012 - 03.2013
Guest Service Agent
Comfort Suites
01.2009 - 08.2011
No Degree - Mass Communications
Sam Houston State University
High School Diploma -
Alief Hastings High School