Kate Hicks
Greenville,SC
Summary
Executive operations leader with 10+ years driving strategy, growth, and transformation across hospitality, F&B, and multi-brand organizations. Trusted C-suite partner with expertise in M&A, integration, and enterprise partnerships. Recognized for building high-performing teams, shaping organizational vision, and delivering sustainable profitability and market expansion.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
VP of Operational Services
Red Door Brands, LLC
08.2025 - Current
- Lead operational strategy and service delivery across multiple brands.
- Oversaw budget allocation, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration to drive innovation and efficiency in project execution.
- Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, regulators, and community leaders to promote collaboration and long-term success.
- Developed and implemented operational frameworks to streamline processes across departments.
Director of Operational Integration & Training
Red Door Brands, LLC
08.2022 - 08.2025
- Directed operational integration during acquisitions, ensuring seamless transitions.
- Managed vendor onboarding, training, and system rollouts for new acquisitions.
- Developed standardized training programs to strengthen operational consistency.
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement strategic marketing initiatives.
- Managed budgeting processes, ensuring resource allocation aligns with business goals.
- Developed comprehensive training programs to enhance team capabilities and performance.
Director of Operational Support
Whiteford's Inc.
01.2023 - 08.2023
- Oversaw post-acquisition integration of newly acquired restaurant units.
- Improved efficiency through streamlined vendor coordination and operational planning.
Marketing & Catering Director
Whiteford's Inc.
10.2020 - 01.2023
- Directed marketing and vendor partnerships for multi-unit QSR operations.
- Launched community-focused campaigns and promotions to increase brand visibility and revenue.
Marketing & Catering Director
Newberry Restaurant Group
10.2020 - 01.2023
- Directed catering operations and marketing initiatives to expand customer base.
- Strengthened vendor partnerships and optimized promotional strategies.
Corporate Group Sales Manager
Service Systems Associates
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Managed group and meeting sales, generating $1M+ in annual revenue.
- Developed proposals, pricing, and event solutions tailored to client needs.
- Oversaw event execution, staff training, and CRM pipeline management.
Event Sales Manager
Embassy Suites
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Managed events of up to 600 guests with budgets exceeding $50K.
- Negotiated contracts, sold venue space and room blocks, and drove revenue growth.
- Implemented targeted sales strategies to expand client base.
Event Coordinator
Europa Village
01.2015 - 01.2015
- Designed and executed creative wine club and fundraising events.
- Increased profitability through unique programming including classes, concerts, and seasonal events.
On-Call Event Staff
Various Organizations
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Supported execution of large-scale events, providing operational and vendor support.
Assistant Events Coordinator & Team Leader
Miramonte Winery
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Managed vendor partnerships with Stone Brewing, Coca-Cola, and Pure Force.
- Led winery tours and educational food/wine pairing events.
- Coordinated large-scale wine festivals and community events.
Education
Certified Wedding And Event Planner - Hospitality
The University of Alabama
Continuing EducationNo Degree - Technical Theater
Winthrop University
Rock Hill, SCSkills
- Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
- Acquisition Integration & Operational Planning
- Vendor Development & Management
- Results-driven
- Event Sales & Execution
- Food & Beverage Operations (QSR & Hospitality)
- Marketing & Brand Strategy
- Executive Administrative Support
- Decision-making
- Team leadership
- Relationship building
- Critical thinking
Websites
Certification
- Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWP)
- Issued 2015
Timeline
VP of Operational Services
Red Door Brands, LLC
08.2025 - Current
Director of Operational Support
Whiteford's Inc.
01.2023 - 08.2023
Director of Operational Integration & Training
Red Door Brands, LLC
08.2022 - 08.2025
Marketing & Catering Director
Whiteford's Inc.
10.2020 - 01.2023
Marketing & Catering Director
Newberry Restaurant Group
10.2020 - 01.2023
Corporate Group Sales Manager
Service Systems Associates
01.2019 - 01.2020
Event Sales Manager
Embassy Suites
01.2016 - 01.2018
Event Coordinator
Europa Village
01.2015 - 01.2015
On-Call Event Staff
Various Organizations
01.2014 - 01.2015
Assistant Events Coordinator & Team Leader
Miramonte Winery
01.2013 - 01.2014
Certified Wedding And Event Planner - Hospitality
The University of Alabama
No Degree - Technical Theater
Winthrop University