Samantha Coulson
Gaithersburg,Maryland
Summary
Dynamic culinary leader with extensive experience at Bonefish Grill, excelling in culinary management and guest relations. Proven track record in executing high-profile events and enhancing operational efficiency. Skilled in team collaboration and strategic marketing, driving brand visibility and profitability while fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Managing Partner
Bonefish Grill
Gaithersburg, Maryland
10.2024 - Current
- Directed all aspects of restaurant operations with a strong focus on culinary excellence, overseeing kitchen quality, menu execution, and back-of-house performance.
- Executed high-profile private culinary events, including menu planning, coordination with vendors, staffing, and on-site oversight to ensure premium guest experiences.
- Managed hiring, training, and development for both FOH and BOH teams, promoting service consistency and culinary precision.
- Maintained inventory control, cost management, and recipe adherence to safeguard profitability while upholding brand standards.
- Championed food quality by verifying presentation, flavor profiles, and preparation methods aligned with Bonefish Grill’s high culinary expectations.
- Developed local marketing and guest engagement strategies to increase visibility and drive sales.
- Oversaw P&L performance, cash handling, HR documentation, and compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Represented the brand through active leadership in community partnerships and culinary outreach initiatives.
- Consistently modeled ethical leadership and hands-on culinary mentorship to foster team collaboration and performance.
Culinary Manager
Bonefish Grill
Gaithersburg, Maryland
11.2020 - 10.2024
- Directed daily back-of-house operations, upholding food quality, safety standards, and presentation excellence.
- Supervised and coached kitchen staff, supporting hiring, onboarding, and skills development for long-term team success.
- Spearheaded planning and execution of culinary-focused events, coordinating logistics, staffing, and menu development to drive guest engagement and brand promotion.
- Maintained compliance with health regulations and company protocols through rigorous safety and sanitation practices.
- Managed inventory, placed food and supply orders, and optimized kitchen productivity through strategic prep and line checks.
- Collaborated across departments to ensure exceptional guest service and operational consistency.
- Led by example, creating a positive kitchen culture and setting high standards for performance and hospitality.
Front of House Manager
Bonefish Grill
Gaithersburg, Maryland
09.2018 - 11.2020
- Responsible for creation and implementation of standard operating procedures for the entire restaurant, including restaurant appearance and presentation, customer experience, professional leadership.
- Responsible for managing entire restaurant staff.
- Responsible for utilizing KPIs to achieve targeted financial results (e.g., employee scheduling, product orders, marketing).
- Contacted local business owners to promote business through grassroots/digital marketing.
- Collaborated with the internal marketing department to develop targeted print and email ads based on sales demographics and seasonal promotions.
- Enforced safety and sanitary practices and maintenance for the entire restaurant.
- Ensure all health inspections meet required county and state standards.
Opening Team Cast Member
The Walt Disney Company
Orlando, Florida
07.2017 - 09.2018
- Collaborated with Disney’s Food Lab chefs and sommeliers to develop and launch a new bar and restaurant concept, aligning with brand storytelling and guest experience goals.
- Supported operational planning and execution for venue opening, including service flow, kitchen layout optimization, and team training protocols.
- Assisted in crafting innovative food and beverage offerings, contributing to tastings, pairings, and final menu refinement with culinary leadership.
- Participated in pre-opening soft runs, workflow testing, and guest feedback implementation to ensure operational readiness and excellence.
- Helped establish opening procedures, inventory systems, and back-of-house standards to drive a seamless launch and maintain quality assurance.
Disney College Program Intern
The Walt Disney Company
Orlando, Florida
01.2016 - 07.2017
- Followed a strict attendance and safety policy while learning about the general operations of the Walt Disney Company.
- Worked in various safety and non-safety critical roles focusing on delivering quality services and experiences to guests throughout the resort.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Data Science
University of Maryland Global Campus
Hyattsville, MD04-2026
Associate of Arts -
Montgomery College
Rockville, MD05.2016
Global Roots Gap Year Program -
The Matulani Children’s Garden
Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania01.2013
Professional Certificate -
Google Project Management
Skills
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Intellectual property management
- Forecasting and planning
- Creative menu planning
- Food and beverage pairing
- Vendor relations
- Operations management
- Process improvements
- Project management
- Team leadership
Certification
- Food Safety and Preparation
Timeline
Managing Partner
Bonefish Grill
10.2024 - Current
Culinary Manager
Bonefish Grill
11.2020 - 10.2024
Front of House Manager
Bonefish Grill
09.2018 - 11.2020
Opening Team Cast Member
The Walt Disney Company
07.2017 - 09.2018
Disney College Program Intern
The Walt Disney Company
01.2016 - 07.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Data Science
University of Maryland Global Campus
Associate of Arts -
Montgomery College
Global Roots Gap Year Program -
The Matulani Children’s Garden
Professional Certificate -
Google Project Management
Similar Profiles
Danielle MachanicDanielle Machanic
Hourly Manager and Server at Bonefish GrillHourly Manager and Server at Bonefish Grill
Luciana BragaLuciana Braga
Hostess at Bonefish GrillHostess at Bonefish Grill
Kaydence DoyleKaydence Doyle
Server at Bonefish Grill RestaurantsServer at Bonefish Grill Restaurants
Connor ConnoleConnor Connole
Restaurant Manager at Bonefish Grill RestaurantsRestaurant Manager at Bonefish Grill Restaurants
Mukul NerurkarMukul Nerurkar
Digital Information Specialist at National Human Genome Research InstituteDigital Information Specialist at National Human Genome Research Institute