Michael Raines
Farwell,MI
Summary
Experienced restaurant manager and catering professional with over 15 years of success in leading teams, managing operations, and delivering exceptional customer service in fast-paced environments. Extensive experience in restaurant management, private event catering, and business ownership, with a focus on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Seeking to bring leadership and expertise to a management role at Applebee’s in Mount Pleasant, MI, with a commitment to driving team success and creating memorable guest experiences.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Private Catering Service
Self-Employed
01.2000 - Current
- Provided private catering services for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale events, such as weddings and funeral dinners.
- Specialized in customized menus tailored to client needs and event size, delivering high-quality food and service.
- Managed all aspects of event catering, including menu planning, budgeting, sourcing, and team management, ensuring successful events and client satisfaction.
Restaurant Manager/Assistant Manager
Big Boy Restaurant Mackinaw City, MI
- Progressed from Bus Boy to Assistant Restaurant Manager over five years, managing a team of 50+ staff members.
- Trained and developed over 300 employees in a transient, seasonal workforce environment, focusing on retention and team engagement.
- Led daily operations, inventory control, and staff scheduling to ensure efficient service and enhanced customer satisfaction.
- Played a pivotal role in creating a positive work environment, leading to increased staff retention and overall team performance
- Completed management training through Big Boy University.
Restaurant Manager/ Assistant Manager
Pizza Hut Daland Corporation
Cheboygan & Petoskey, MI
- Advanced from Cook to Assistant Manager in three years, with responsibilities including managing staff, handling daily operations, and ensuring food quality and guest satisfaction.
- Mentored a shift supervisor who later advanced to Store Manager, highlighting leadership and staff development capabilities.
- Upon returning five years later, I was immediately offered a management position based on proven performance and leadership.
- Completed Shift Leader Training Program and Restaurant General Manager (RGM) Training provided by Pizza Hut (Daland Corporation).
Front End Manager/Host Manager
Villa Ristorante Italiano
Petoskey, MI
- Trained in front-of-house management under Alex Czinki, owner of Ristorante Italiana, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 1991 by the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association – the highest honor given by the MRLA.
- Gained comprehensive experience in front-of-house management, service flow, and waitstaff management.
Owner/Operator
Central Home Inspections, Inc.
Farwell, MI
- Current
- Founded and operated a successful home inspection business, focusing on exceptional customer service and detailed property assessments.
- Managed all business operations, including financials, client acquisition, and staff management, ensuring a strong referral rate and positive client experiences.
Other Restaurant Experience
Northern Michigan
- McDonald’s, Mackinaw City, MI – Completed Shift Management Training.
- Christopher’s Restaurant, Indian River, MI
- Pancake Chef, Mackinaw City, MI
- Subway, Cheboygan, MI
- Schelde’s Steakhouse, Petoskey, MI
- Michael's Restaurant, Mackinaw City, MI
Estimator and Contractor Sales
Menards
Mount Pleasant, MI
01.2008 - 01.2016
- Provided expert estimation and project management support for construction projects, managing customer accounts in a high-pressure, fast-paced retail environment
- Maintained a professional demeanor, consistently exceeding sales targets and providing tailored solutions for contractors and homeowners.
Owner/Operator
Michael A Raines Construction and Masonry
- 01.2008
- Managed all aspects of a successful construction business, specializing in custom stonework, ensuring projects were completed on time and within budget
- Delivered high-quality customer service and managed client relationships, ensuring repeat business and client satisfaction.
Education
High School Diploma -
Mackinaw City High School
Mackinaw City, MI06-1990
Skills
- Restaurant Operations Management
- Event Catering and Client Relations
- Team Leadership and Development
- Inventory and Cost Control
- Business Ownership and Management
- High-Pressure Sales and Problem Solving
- Staff Training and Retention
- Health and Safety Compliance
Certification
- Big Boy University – Management Training
- Pizza Hut (Daland Corporation) – Shift Leader Training Program
- Pizza Hut (Daland Corporation) – Restaurant General Manager Training
- McDonald’s – Shift Management Training
- Certified Master Inspector
- IAC2 Certified
- Certified Inspection Expert since 2015
- Michigan's Best Home Inspector- as recognized by a national peer group of over 400 Home Inspection Companies
- NAMP Certified Mold Inspector and Remediator
Volunteer Experience
Community Outreach, International Organization, 01/01/21 - Present, Participate in an internationally organized effort located on campuses and in metro areas globally, providing helpful information and guidance to people of all races and backgrounds., Focus on leadership, mentorship, and community engagement, offering support and guidance to students and local communities., Promote inclusivity and build connections through educational outreach, ensuring a positive impact across diverse groups.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Estimator and Contractor Sales
Menards
01.2008 - 01.2016
Private Catering Service
Self-Employed
01.2000 - Current
Restaurant Manager/Assistant Manager
Big Boy Restaurant Mackinaw City, MI
Owner/Operator
Central Home Inspections, Inc.
- Current
Owner/Operator
Michael A Raines Construction and Masonry
- 01.2008
Restaurant Manager/ Assistant Manager
Pizza Hut Daland Corporation
Front End Manager/Host Manager
Villa Ristorante Italiano
Other Restaurant Experience
Northern Michigan
High School Diploma -
Mackinaw City High School
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