Ryan Mercer
Ann Arbor,MI
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with over 10 years of experience as a chef and nearly 20 years in the restaurant industry, poised to transition into the fitness sector. Recently completed a nutrition coach certification through NASM and holds a personal training certification from ISSA, effectively combining culinary expertise with a passion for health and wellness. Proven ability to lead and manage teams in high-pressure environments, fostering collaboration and excellence. Relocating to Florida on March 10, 2026, ready to leverage skills in a new and exciting arena.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chef
Regents Field
Ann Arbor, MI
07.2025 - Current
- Developed innovative menu items that enhanced customer satisfaction and increased repeat business.
- Trained and mentored junior kitchen staff in culinary techniques and food safety practices.
- Streamlined kitchen operations by implementing efficient food preparation processes and reducing waste.
- Managed inventory control to ensure fresh ingredients availability while minimizing costs.
Executive Chef
Real Seafood Company
Estero Fl
02.2025 - 07.2025
- Developed innovative seasonal menus to enhance customer satisfaction and drive repeat business.
- Oversaw kitchen operations, ensuring adherence to food safety standards and quality control protocols.
- Trained and mentored junior chefs, fostering culinary skills and teamwork within the kitchen brigade.
- Streamlined food preparation processes, reducing waste and improving kitchen efficiency.
Executive Chef
Carson’s American Bistro
01.2019 - 01.2025
- As the head chef, it is my responsibility to control all the Back of House costs (i.e., labor, food, direct cost). I have created weekly specials that have been an enormous success. Created menus for unique events as well as helped with the creation of the core menu with the corporate chef. During the pandemic I have had to come out of my comfort zone and work directly with the guests in the Front of House. I have quickly learned how to deal with any situation that has came about in either the front or back. Working with the management team, it is our job to uphold the standards that our company has set in place.
Sous Chef
Real Seafood Company of Ann Arbor
01.2014 - 01.2019
- Worked with the head chef to create new dishes as well as menus for special events. Managed the monthly inventory as well as the partial daily inventory we had to do. Working directly with the chef to learn how to manage food cost in a scratch kitchen. Handled any issues that arouse in the Back of House. Quickly learned how to handle conflict in a professional manner.
Education
B.A. - Computer science
Devry University
Columbus, OH06.2007
Skills
- Creativity
- Leadership
- Organization
- Problem solving
- Teamwork
Websites
Certification
Personal Training Certification
Nutrition Coach Certification
Timeline
Chef
Regents Field
07.2025 - Current
Executive Chef
Real Seafood Company
02.2025 - 07.2025
Executive Chef
Carson’s American Bistro
01.2019 - 01.2025
Sous Chef
Real Seafood Company of Ann Arbor
01.2014 - 01.2019
B.A. - Computer science
Devry University