Summary
Overview
Work History
Languages
Certification
Timeline
Volunteer

Erika Ruiz

PARK RIDGE,IL

Summary

I am an innovative leader with a talent for transforming teams and cultivating client relationships. I excel in achieving critical metrics like profitability, safety, and engagement. I'll bring a unique vision to strategic decision-making, compliance, and team development. As a strategic financial owner, I infuse innovative strategies into reporting, forecasting, and budgeting.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Sr. Director of Food and Nutrition Services

Compass Group - St. Joseph Hospital Chicago
Chicago, IL
12.2021 - Current
  • Cultivated client relationships through targeted communication strategies and proactive conflict resolution. These efforts contributed to improved outcomes and sustained partnerships.
  • Demonstrated robust financial acumen and precise fiscal oversight by effectively creating and managing a $10 million budget.
  • Conducted a menu analysis to identify high-margin and low-margin items, strategically adjusting recipes and offerings to optimize inventory and boost profitability by 12%.
  • Achieved a 22% year-over-year reduction in labor costs through the implementation of workflow optimizations and streamlined scheduling processes.
  • Transformed the floor stock system through the application of data analysis techniques, overseeing waste, usage, and operational efficiency. Achieved a remarkable annual cost reduction exceeding 30%.

Regional Director of Operations

Compass Group - FOODWORKS
Chicago, IL
05.2016 - 11.2021
  • As a key member of the FW founding team, I spearheaded the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures aligned with Compass standards, ensuring the sustained success and sustainability of the FW program.
  • Successfully led the market establishment in the MIdwest by strategically recruiting, onboarding, and providing comprehensive training for over 50+ restaurant partners.
  • Collaborated with sales and marketing teams across various sectors within Compass Group to develop compelling sales presentations integrated into nationwide proposals.
  • Extensively traveled to diverse markets, leading presentations, establishing new accounts, training market managers, and ensuring seamless integration of the FW platform.
  • Developed impactful marketing campaigns through the creation of case studies, emphasizing the positive impacts on the community, culture, and climate. #CommunityIsEverything

General Manager

Compass Group - Eurest
Chicago , IL
01.2013 - 05.2016
  • Effectively managed multi-venue P&L accounts surpassing $7 million in annual sales, overseeing 40 hourly employees and 3 salaried managers.
  • Conducted in-depth analysis of P&L statements on a weekly basis, adapting strategies promptly to optimize cost savings.
  • Developed comprehensive financial plans, budgets, and 30-60-90 day forecasts to track and steer account performance towards fiscal goals.
  • Facilitated collaborative meetings with chefs, catering managers, and front-of-house staff to create enticing event menus, wellness initiatives, and limited-time specials, resulting in a significant 20% sales growth.

Languages

Spanish
Native/ Bilingual

Certification

  • ServSafe, Managers Certification
  • City Of Chicago, Food & Sanitation Manager Certification
  • CBDM, Food Allergies and Celiac Disease Certification
  • CDR, IDDSI Certification

Timeline

Sr. Director of Food and Nutrition Services

Compass Group - St. Joseph Hospital Chicago
12.2021 - Current

Regional Director of Operations

Compass Group - FOODWORKS
05.2016 - 11.2021

General Manager

Compass Group - Eurest
01.2013 - 05.2016
Erika Ruiz