Phillip Wanke
Mindoro
Summary
Professional leader with comprehensive experience in driving operational excellence and strategic growth. Proven track record of fostering team collaboration and achieving impactful results in dynamic environments. Skilled in navigating complex challenges, optimizing processes, and cultivating positive workplace cultures. Known for adaptability, effective communication, and strong decision-making abilities.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager
Sodexo
Southern Minnesota/Northern Iowa
01.2026 - Current
- Operational Leadership: Manage day-to-day operations for dining and catering on campus including university dining facility (avg 1500 meals daily), Einstein's, Taco Bell, Starbucks, Firehouse Subs, and rotating concepts.
- Financial Performance: Achieve budgetary goals, manage labor and food costs, and optimize profitability.
- Client Relations: Maintain strong relationships with clients to drive satisfaction and act as a strategic advisor.
- Team Development: Train, mentor, and lead a diverse team of front-of-house and back-of-house managers.
- Safety & Standards: Ensure compliance with Sodexo quality standards, food safety standards (HACCP), and regulatory requirements.
- Service Excellence: Drive a culture of hospitality and high-quality guest experiences.
- Sales Growth: Assist with sales presentation and RFP process gaining new business with Minnesota State Universities.
General Manager
Panera Bread
Onalaska, WI
11.2024 - 12.2025
- Operational Leadership: Own all aspects of daily bakery-cafe operations, including food quality, preparation, and presentation, adhering to Panera standards.
- Team Development: Recruit, hire, train, motivate, and retain team members; manage staff performance, scheduling, and career development.
- Financial Performance: Responsible for achieving profit and loss (P&L) objectives, managing inventory, controlling costs, and analyzing business results.
- Guest Experience: Ensure prompt, friendly service and address customer feedback to maintain high service standards.
- Safety & Sanitation: Ensure compliance with health department, Ecosure, and safety regulations.
President
Gathering Waters Catering
La Crosse, Wisconsin
01.2018 - 11.2024
- Creating concepts and business plans including Monkey Business Food Truck, Burger Fusion Company, Founders Cafe, and Gathering Waters Catering.
- Building business to successful multiple locations with local and Federal contracts including restaurants, catering, and food truck enterprises.
- Earning multiple 'Best of La Crosse' recognitions and Wisconsin Restaurant Association awards including WRA Entrepreneur of the Year.
- Directed strategic planning and execution for event catering operations.
- Fostered partnerships with local vendors to enhance service offerings.
Director of Group Sales
La Crosse County Convention and Visitors Bureau
La Crosse, Wisconsin
08.2015 - 12.2017
- Led sales initiatives, resulting in increased revenue and market penetration.
- Developed strategic partnerships to enhance visibility and attract new clientele.
- Established long-term relationships with key stakeholders in tourism and event planning sectors.
General Manager
HuHot Mongolian Grill
La Crosse, Wisconsin
05.2014 - 08.2015
Manager
Kitchen Collection/ Le Gourmet Chef
La Crosse, Wisconsin
05.2012 - 05.2014
Food And Beverage Director
Hostmark Hospitality Group
01.2011 - 01.2012
Food And Beverage Director
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
01.2007 - 01.2011
Catering Sales Manager
Marriott International
2004 - 01.2007
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Conflict Resolution
Saint John’s University
Collegeville, MN05-1991
Skills
- Food and Beverage Operations
- Hospitality
- Hotels
- Leadership and team building
- Operations management
- P&L management
- Team training and development
- Problem resolution
- Training and coaching
- Business development
Certification
- Food Managers Certification ServSafe
- Marriott Hotels Wedding Planner
- Level 1 Awareness Training DOD
- Active Shooter Training
- Wood Badge (Graduate and Instructor)
Timeline
General Manager
Sodexo
01.2026 - Current
General Manager
Panera Bread
11.2024 - 12.2025
President
Gathering Waters Catering
01.2018 - 11.2024
Director of Group Sales
La Crosse County Convention and Visitors Bureau
08.2015 - 12.2017
General Manager
HuHot Mongolian Grill
05.2014 - 08.2015
Manager
Kitchen Collection/ Le Gourmet Chef
05.2012 - 05.2014
Food And Beverage Director
Hostmark Hospitality Group
01.2011 - 01.2012
Food And Beverage Director
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
01.2007 - 01.2011
Catering Sales Manager
Marriott International
2004 - 01.2007
Bachelor's Degree - Conflict Resolution
Saint John’s University