Rich Clark
Phoenix
Summary
Dynamic leader with a strong focus on enhancing culinary operations and customer satisfaction. Demonstrated success in implementing cost-saving strategies and fostering positive dining environments. Committed to driving operational excellence through innovative menu development and team mentorship.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Managing Partner
Crust Simply Italian
Phoenix
03.2025 - Current
- Oversee daily restaurant operations, ensuring seamless service delivery and operational effectiveness.
- Manage recruitment, training, and performance evaluations to develop a high-performing team.
- Champione customer service excellence, driving initiatives to enhance client satisfaction and retention.
- Fostering a positive dining environment through exceptional customer service practices.
- Review daily and overall financials to ensure profitability.
- Maintaine positive relationships with external stakeholders, facilitating communication with investors and regulators.
- Serve as an agent, trustee, or guardian for businesses and individuals, facilitating their financial and legal affairs.
- Provide organizational leadership and collaborated with owner to establish long-term goals, strategies and company policies.
General Manager VI
Sodexo
PHOENIX
03.2024 - 12.2025
- Managed daily operations across multiple units, overseeing contracts and food service operations.
- Conducted quarterly business reviews, presenting findings to director and VP of operations.
- Consistently achieved financial targets for both company and clients.
- Developed strong relationships with clients and customers to enhance satisfaction.
- Motivated and mentored management team and staff for improved performance.
- Ensured compliance with food safety and physical safety standards per Sodexo guidelines.
- Oversaw POS systems, marketing efforts, and vendor relationships to optimize efficiency.
Senior Director of Dining Services
Compass / Eurest
REDMOND
02.2011 - 04.2023
- Oversaw multi-unit dining services operations, including menu planning, branded Starbucks location, food production, and service delivery, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and improved overall sales.
- Implemented cost-saving strategies by streamlining procurement processes and menu development, achieving ~10% reduction in food costs while maintaining quality.
- Spearheaded the launch of a sustainable dining initiative, including the introduction of locally sourced ingredients and waste reduction measures, resulting in a decrease in carbon footprint and earning the organization an industry sustainability award.
- Implemented sustainability initiatives aimed at decreasing packaging use and managing food waste effectively.
- Developed and implemented training programs for staff to ensure consistent high-quality service standards, enhancing employee satisfaction and reducing turnover.
- Launched an on-campus delivery service to enhance accessibility to dining options for the campus community.
Senior General Manager
The Cheesecake Factory
BELLEVUE
02.1995 - 12.2010
- Additional Locations: Washington DC, Atlanta GA, West Palm Beach FL, Bellevue Wa
- 9 to 15 million annually
- Facilities management
- Budget writing
- P&L management
- Inventory controls
- Opened 9 locations nationwide
- Led and supervised a team of 175+ employees, effectively managing their performance, training, and development to ensure high levels of productivity and customer satisfaction.
Head coach
Spartans Baseball Club
SAMMAMISH
01.2013 - 09.2017
- Successfully led and coached select level travel baseball teams
- Demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in managing and guiding athletes
- Implemented effective strategies to enhance team performance and achieve outstanding results
- Fostered a positive and motivational environment to optimize player development
- Utilized strong communication and interpersonal abilities to build strong relationships with athletes and their families
- Trained and mentored players to improve their skills and maximize their potential.
Coach / Manager / Board
Sammamish Baseball Club
SAMMAMISH
02.2009 - 06.2015
- Recognized for outstanding coaching abilities and selected as All Stars team manager for three consecutive seasons
- Implemented strategic game plans, contributing to consistent wins and enhanced player development
- Guided and mentored teams to achieve notable performances, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship
- Led multiple baseball teams as Manager/Coach, fostering a collaborative environment
- Created a positive and supportive environment for young athletes, fostering their growth both on and off the field.
Education
Business Administration -
Frostburg State University
Frostburg, UNITED STATESBusiness Administration -
University of Maryland
COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATESSkills
- Management
- Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Revenue Optimization
- Cost Management
- Financial Management
- Operational Oversight
- Vendor Management
- Menu Development
- Culinary Development
- Customer Service
- Team Building
- Talent Development
- Mentoring
- Problem-Solving
- Adaptable
- Communication
- Growth
Hobbies and Interests
- Travel
- Coaching
- Golf
- Baseball
Volunteer Experience
Coach / Manager / Board, Sammamish Baseball Club, 02/01/09, 06/30/15, Demonstrated leadership skills as Manager/Coach for multiple baseball teams., Successfully guided and mentored teams to achieve remarkable performances, instilling a strong sense of teamwork and sportsmanship., Recognized for outstanding coaching abilities and selected as All Stars team manager for three consecutive seasons., Effectively implemented strategic game plans, resulting in consistent wins and improved player development., Created a positive and supportive environment for young athletes, fostering their growth both on and off the field.
Timeline
Managing Partner
Crust Simply Italian
03.2025 - Current
General Manager VI
Sodexo
03.2024 - 12.2025
Head coach
Spartans Baseball Club
01.2013 - 09.2017
Senior Director of Dining Services
Compass / Eurest
02.2011 - 04.2023
Coach / Manager / Board
Sammamish Baseball Club
02.2009 - 06.2015
Senior General Manager
The Cheesecake Factory
02.1995 - 12.2010
Business Administration -
Frostburg State University
Business Administration -
University of Maryland