John C. Wilson
Louisville, KY 40208 • - •-
Professional Experience
F&B; Manager (Task Force) / Interim GM
Statler Hotel at Cornell University – Taverna Banfi — Ithaca, NY
October 2022 – Present
•
•
Spearheaded the onboarding and training of new staff members, enhancing service quality and operational
efficiency.
Developed and implemented comprehensive workflows for multiple outlets, streamlining operations and
improving guest satisfaction.
F&B; Manager (Task Force)
Marriott Hotel (Autograph Collection – Distil) — Louisville, KY
December 2022 – March 2023
•
•
Managed new client accounts, achieving a high retention rate through exceptional service and relationship
management.
Introduced cost-saving practices and procedures, reducing expenditure and increasing overall savings.
F&B; Manager (Task Force)
Marriott (Charlotte) – Aura Restaurant — Charlotte, NC
June 2022 – August 2022
•
•
•
Trained and supervised staff delivering unparalleled customer service, resulting in improved guest
feedback scores.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to fulfill guest requests, enhancing overall guest experience.
Established and nurtured relationships with key customers, promoting loyalty and repeat business.
Brand Manager
Jeff Ruby’s Culinary Entertainment, LLC — Louisville, KY
July 2006 – October 2018
•
•
•
•
•
Directed sales and marketing for the Louisville location, with annual revenue increases averaging 15% and
contributions to over $8M in gross revenues.
Conducted comprehensive market research to develop tailored marketing proposals and client contracts,
optimizing promotional programs to meet annual targets.
Cultivated extensive client relationships, including high-profile individuals, ensuring privacy and
professionalism.
Developed and executed national branding concepts (e.g., Jeff Ruby’s seasoning and home delivery),
earning recognition in prominent publications.
Orchestrated major event campaigns around the Kentucky Derby season to elevate brand visibility and
guest traffic.
General Manager / Restaurant Manager
Blu Italian Mediterranean Grille – Marriott Louisville Downtown — Louisville, KY
August 2003 – June 2006
•
•
Led the opening of the Blu Italian Mediterranean Grille, establishing it as a premier dining destination within
the hotel.
Oversaw daily operations, ensuring exceptional service standards and high-quality culinary offerings.
•
Recruited, trained, and managed a team of 30+ staff members, fostering a culture of excellence and
teamwork.
Corporate Trainer
Morton's The Steakhouse — Various Locations
June 2000 – July 2003
•
•
Selected as a preferred corporate trainer, traveling to various franchises to instill high standards of
professional food service and superior customer service.
Developed effective training manuals and conducted evaluations to identify and address areas for
improvement.