Robert Ackerman
Raising Canes
Pulaski,PA
15
years of professional experience
Restaurant Manager with over 11 years of experience in optimizing restaurant operations and driving strategic growth through comprehensive financial analysis and trend identification. Expert in quality assurance, staff management, and leadership development, ensuring compliance with safety audits and enhancing team cohesion. Adept at fostering a positive work environment, resolving conflicts, and implementing robust training programs to maintain high standards and operational efficiency.
Work History
Assistant Restaurant General Manager
8 Months- Supervised daily restaurant operations, ensuring crew followed service standards and safety procedures.
- Trained shift leaders and crew members on hospitality, product quality, and operational expectations.
- Monitored labor, sales, and throughput to support efficient shift execution and guest satisfaction.
- Coordinated inventory, ordering, and product freshness to maintain consistent food availability.
- Resolved guest concerns promptly, preserving service quality and brand standards.
- Enforced sanitation, food handling, and workplace safety compliance across front and back of house.
- Supported scheduling, staffing, and performance coaching to strengthen team accountability.
- Analyzed daily restaurant results and adjusted operations to improve speed, accuracy, and consistency.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving customer complaints promptly and professionally.
- Implemented cross-training initiatives among team members which increased flexibility in staffing and improved overall service delivery.
- Kept restaurant compliant with all federal, state, and local hygiene and food safety regulations.
- Maintained a clean and inviting atmosphere within the restaurant by implementing strict cleanliness standards for both staff members and the dining area itself.
- Streamlined operations by implementing efficient staff scheduling, reducing labor costs while maintaining service quality.
- Managed financial responsibilities including budget development, cost control measures, and revenue tracking.
- Established rapport with regular customers through personalized service experiences, encouraging loyalty visits and positive word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied guests.
- Supervised all areas of restaurant to keep it clean and well-maintained.
- Facilitated effective communication between front-of-house and back-of-house teams, fostering a collaborative work environment that led to smoother operations.
- Evaluated employee performance using established metrics during regular evaluations, identifying opportunities for professional growth or necessary corrective action when warranted.
- Boosted employee morale through recognition programs, leading to higher retention rates and improved teamwork.
- Oversaw vendor relationships to ensure timely deliveries of high-quality products at competitive prices.
Assistant General Manager
1 Year 1 Month- Handled cash accurately and prepared deposits.
- Inspired motivated employees and delivered training while reinforcing disciplined standards to maximize performance.
- Worked alongside general manager on marketing initiatives focused on expanding brand awareness and driving sales growth.
- Elevated customer satisfaction through prompt concern resolution and follow-up.
- Monitored and managed inventory levels through inventory management processes to minimize spoilage or waste and sustain proper stock levels.
- Developed and implemented new operational procedures, streamlining daily tasks and improving overall efficiency.
- Mentored staff members, fostering a supportive work environment that enhanced employee performance and retention.
- Ensured compliance with all health department regulations by implementing strict sanitation guidelines throughout the establishment.
- Monitored facility maintenance needs, coordinating repairs and upgrades as necessary to keep operations running smoothly.
- Analyzed customer feedback data to identify areas of improvement and develop solutions.
- Managed team schedule with eye for coverage needs and individual strengths.
- Assisted in the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process for new employees to build a skilled workforce committed to excellence in service delivery.
- Enhanced communication among team members through regular meetings, promoting an open dialogue about challenges and opportunities for improvement.
- Mentored and motivated team members to achieve challenging business goals.
- Collaborated with other department managers on cross-functional projects, fostering a cooperative atmosphere that drove overall organizational success.
FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER
1 Year 8 Months- led front-of-house operations, enhancing customer experience.
- Implemented staff training, improving service quality and reducing wait times.
- Optimized seating arrangements, increasing daily customer turnover.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, maintaining high service standards.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff, ensuring timely and accurate order delivery.
- Streamlined staff scheduling and service procedures, resulting in higher guest satisfaction.
- Implemented new training program for waitstaff, focusing on upselling techniques and menu knowledge, leading to a notable increase in average check size.
- Fostered strong team dynamics, mentoring staff and promoting open communication, which significantly reduced turnover rates in the front-of-house team.
- Analyzed sales data and customer feedback to identify trends, adjusting menu offerings and service strategies to boost overall restaurant performance.
- Maintained meticulous oversight of dining room operations, ensuring adherence to health and safety standards while elevating the guest experience.
RESTAURANT OPERATING PARTNER
10 Years 7 Months- Identified key trends for strategic growth through financial reviews.
- Maintained optimal staffing levels and adhered to budget constraints.
- Approved management hires and compensation, fostering a skilled and motivated team.
- Maintained JRI standards, ensuring quality and cleanliness across all operations.
- Resolved conflicts and promoted a positive work environment, enhancing team cohesion.
- Analyze financial metrics and sales reports, conducting weekly reviews to identify trends and variances, driving data-driven decision-making.
- Spearhead leadership development initiatives, ensuring robust training programs and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across restaurants.
- Optimize staffing levels and training budgets, balancing operational efficiency with quality standards to enhance overall restaurant performance.
- Guide management in addressing workplace challenges, promoting a positive environment and fair disciplinary procedures.
Education
Management Food Handlers Certification
On Going Classes and Certifications
Skills
Customer Service (Experienced)
Problem Solving (Experienced)
Order Placement (Experienced)
Profit and Loss (Experienced)
Food Handling (Expert)
Team Development (Expert)
Financial Analysis (Experienced)
Leadership Development (Experienced)
Staff Management (Expert)
Quality Assurance (Expert)
Computer Systems (Experienced)
Training Programs (Experienced)
Safety Audits (Expert)
Conflict Resolution (Expert)
Communication (Experienced)
Inventory Management (Experienced)
Cost Control (Experienced)
Vendor Relations (Experienced)
Sales Strategy (Experienced)
Marketing Campaigns (Experienced)
Operational efficiency
Guest satisfaction tracking
Recruitment and hiring
Scheduling coordination
Labor cost control
Guest relations
Inventory control
Employee scheduling
Certifications
- Servsafe Certified
- Basic and Management ALIC
Additional References
Tyler Slezak- Former District Manager at JRI Management (480) 334-5508
Emmy Salser- General Manager with Hooters (740) 504-7510
Don Van Hyning- Former Director of Operations at JRI Management (480) 776-4584
Craig Ross - General Manager Raising Canes
(440) 525- 1550
Timeline
Assistant Restaurant General Manager
Raising Canes
03.2026 - CurrentRead More
Assistant General Manager
Buffalo Wild Wings
10.2024 - 11.2025Read More
FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER
Hooters
02.2023 - 10.2024Read More
RESTAURANT OPERATING PARTNER
Freddys Frozen Custard And Steakburger
12.2011 - 07.2022Read More
Management Food Handlers Certification
Read More