Nicole Willis
Chicago,IL
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in strategic planning and execution, skilled in driving initiatives that enhance operational efficiency. Proven ability in collaborative project management fosters effective teamwork and successful outcomes. Eager to transition into a new field while leveraging strong organizational and communication skills to contribute to team success.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Area Supervisor
Wrigley Rooftops- Levy Restaurants
09.2024 - Current
- Oversee 11 buildings located in the surrounding area of Cubs' Wrigley Field.
- Supervise daily operations to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
- Collaborate with the HR department for recruitment, selection, and onboarding of new employees, resulting in the formation of high-performing teams.
- Train and mentor new team members on operational procedures and customer service excellence.
- Collaborate with management to strategize initiatives for improving guest experience and satisfaction levels.
Restaurant Consultant
Bar Martine
12.2024 - 06.2025
- Assisted in developing the concept, bar design, and service style for a 100-seat restaurant and bar.
- Developed a working budget and timeline for opening, and was responsible for all staffing, including creating job descriptions, interviewing, hiring, and training FOH staff.
- Assisted with marketing and PR campaigns. Acted as a liaison between the operations team and ownership.
- Advised on menu optimization strategies to align offerings with customer preferences and market trends.
- Developed training programs for staff to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Director of Operations for Food and Beverage
The Hoxton Hotel- Boka Restaurant Group
10.2021 - 06.2024
- Oversaw all food and beverage operations at the Hoxton Hotel, including a three-service restaurant, a rooftop restaurant with a pool bar, and a live-music speakeasy bar; totaling $23 million in sales annually, including $3 million in event revenue.
- Created and executed event programming, bar collaborations, and community pop-ups.
- Streamlined operational processes to enhance efficiency and service quality across hotel and restaurant operations.
- Led cross-functional teams to implement strategic initiatives, driving improvements in guest satisfaction and operational performance.
- Developed and executed training programs for staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts to optimize cost-effectiveness while maintaining service standards.
- Conducted regular performance reviews to assess team progress, providing constructive feedback and guidance for continuous improvement.
- Oversaw successful implementation of operational strategies and policies to drive organizational growth and productivity.
- Enhanced employee engagement by developing training programs, fostering a collaborative culture, and promoting professional development opportunities.
General Manager
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
08.2018 - 10.2020
- Directed daily operations, ensuring high-quality service and adherence to operational standards.
- Built a high-performance team through coaching and developing training programs.
- Adapted to CDC guidelines and state protocols, pivoting the business model to off-premise sales.
- Managed daily office operations, ensuring efficiency and organization across departments.
General Manager
Bambara- Kimpton Group
09.2015 - 06.2018
- Oversaw all food and beverage operations in the Hotel Monaco; 3-meal period restaurant, bar, 4,000 sq.ft. banquet space and in-room dining.
- Implemented cost-control measures, optimizing inventory management and reducing waste.
- Collaborated with culinary team to curate seasonal menus aligned with market trends.
Assistant General Manager
South Water Kitchen- Kimpton Group
06.2013 - 08.2015
- Supported staff in daily operations.
- Responsible for the wine program; developed beverage menus, and created training programs for staff.
- Assisted the General Manager with marketing, forecasting, budget, and capital expense projects.
Service Manager
312 Chicago- Kimpton Group
04.2011 - 05.2013
- Led team to enhance service delivery standards, resulting in improved guest satisfaction.
- Implemented inventory management systems to reduce costs and increase efficiency in the beverage program.
Education
Bachelor in Science - Management
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI05.2010
International Business
Fachhochschule Bielefeld University
Bielefeld, Germany12.2009
Skills
- Multi-unit oversight
- Health and Safety compliance
- Leadership development
- Staffing and recruitment
- Budget management
- Event programming
Certification
- Microsoft Office Suites
- Court of Master Sommeliers- Introductory Sommelier
- Cicerone Certified Beer Server
Community
Salt Lake Area Restaurant Association, Board Member, 2017-03, 2018-06
Timeline
Restaurant Consultant
Bar Martine
12.2024 - 06.2025
Area Supervisor
Wrigley Rooftops- Levy Restaurants
09.2024 - Current
Director of Operations for Food and Beverage
The Hoxton Hotel- Boka Restaurant Group
10.2021 - 06.2024
General Manager
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
08.2018 - 10.2020
General Manager
Bambara- Kimpton Group
09.2015 - 06.2018
Assistant General Manager
South Water Kitchen- Kimpton Group
06.2013 - 08.2015
Service Manager
312 Chicago- Kimpton Group
04.2011 - 05.2013
International Business
Fachhochschule Bielefeld University
Bachelor in Science - Management
Northern Michigan University