Julian Nelson

San Diego,CA

Summary

Dynamic and passionate General Manager with a proven track record of delivering high productivity and efficient task completion. Recognized for strategic planning, team leadership, and comprehensive training of front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) staff. Adept at operational management and excelling in communication, problem-solving, and adaptability to foster effective team collaboration and ensure customer satisfaction. Committed to driving business growth through innovative strategies and exemplifying exceptional leadership qualities.

Overview

years of professional experience

Certification

Work History

Director of Operations / Owner

Nelson Restaurant Group

12.2018 - 05.2024

The newest launch from the Nelson Restaurant Group
Oversaw product development initiatives from concept through completion stages
Responsible for design and implementation of recipes from conceptual ideas to menu placement
Launched a new sequence of service to enhance emotional engagement with guests and drive efficiency, yielding increased guest satisfaction
Maximized food and beverage revenues and profits, evaluating key metrics to ensure top performance and providing improvement recommendations

General Manager / Owner

BLACKBIRD TAVERN

12.2012 - 12.2018

From initial concept through construction, I played a pivotal role in the successful launch of this long-awaited follow-up to Front Street Union
Tasked with all menu creation, recipe testing, training of front and back of the house to ensure a solid opening weekend
Developed and launched short- and long-term objectives, policies, and procedures that were a vital component to a successful launch
Organized the management of finances to achieve budgeted expense targets and profitability, becoming profitable within 9 months while sustaining top quality
Coach and mentor managers and employees to drive high performance, actively seeking feedback and encouraging team members to participate in key decisions
Intentionally cultivate a cohesive team environment with high employee engagement and retention levels, yielding a 2% turnover rate

Bar Manager / Owner

FRONT STREET UNION

12.2008 - 12.2012

Directed day-to-day operations and launch of this new venue
Tasked with helping with final designs of the business, hiring and training of all staff members, creating opening bar pars and creating elevated cocktail menus showing seasonal ingredients
Established and built relationships within the musical community and tasked with scheduling all live acts for a 7-day live music venue
Maintained operational compliance with state labor laws and practices, accountable for compliance across all policies, procedures, and standards
Collaborated with an HR consultant to lead compliance training for all employees

Bar Manager/Bartender

910 - Grand Colonial Hotel

12.2006 - 12.2008

Originally hired as Bar Manager for the recently relaunched 910 Restaurant
Within 12-months revitalized operations, envisioning and executing Food and Beverage strategy and maximizing guest and team member experiences
Quickly promoted to general manager due to continued achievements, providing strategic leadership for the bar and lounge while also directing the operations of the award winning 910 restaurant
Consistently monitors and evaluates operational effectiveness, applying laser-focused attention to detail to drive continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's Degree - Applied Food Studies, Culinary Science and Hotel Restaurant Management

Culinary Institute of America

Skills

Operational Efficiency
Strategic planning and execution
Cost Control
Performance Analysis

Retail build outs
Teamwork and Collaboration
Staff training/development
Data Analysis