Vance Simmons
Grand Rapids
Summary
Dynamic General Manager with a proven track record at The Gilmore Collection and Essence Restaurant Group, excelling in operations management and team building. Successfully implemented cost-saving measures, enhancing efficiency while maintaining service quality. Cultivated strong customer relationships, transforming feedback into loyalty, and led diverse teams to achieve organizational goals through effective staff supervision and P&L management.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Essence Restaurant Group
05.2021 - 08.2025
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, and schedules.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
General Manager
The Gilmore Collection
05.2006 - 05.2021
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, and schedules.
- Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
- Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
- Addressed customer complaints and feedback with immediate action, turning dissatisfied customers into loyal patrons.
- Oversaw successful launch of new menus, coordinating between departments to ensure unified approach and timely delivery.
- Started as a server/bartender with the company and gradually moved into management. Worked in 8 restaurants in the group.
Education
Jefferson State
Birmingham, ALSkills
- Leadership and team building
- Problem resolution
- Operations management
- Team player
- Inventory control
- Customer relationship management
- Staff supervision
- Employee scheduling
- P&L management
- Labor cost controls
Timeline
General Manager
Essence Restaurant Group
05.2021 - 08.2025
General Manager
The Gilmore Collection
05.2006 - 05.2021
Jefferson State
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