John Skogstad

Experience

1. Managing Partner

   Hamburger Mary\'s Denver

   Apr 2016 — Present

   Spearheaded business and operations strategies and execution for LGBTQ-focused restaurant, bar, and entertainment venue generating over $1.6M in revenue annually. Built team of community-oriented business leaders, successfully acquired franchise rights, identified new location, and finalized all agreements in two months; established new venue uniquely positioned to foster open environment of inclusivity and community. Led executive team on development and execution of high-level projects, interacted with management on operations, and ensured company employees were productive, trained, and engaged in mission and vision. Oversaw relaunch of brand, contributed to marketing strategy, coordinated event vendors, and led outreach to media and community; gained positive buzz and secured community engagement. Drove continuous audits of business and finance operations, pinpointed areas of improvement, and led process and operations improvements; able to reduce labor spend 23% and food cost 21%. Overhauled operations and processes, focused on improved management, inventory auditing, and community engagement, partnered with suppliers to improve terms and conditions, and updated ongoing community outreach and special event operations. Led vendor relations, examined contracts to identify areas of cost savings, worked with partners to determine programs with best costs, and trained staff on cost saving practices. Spearheaded recruitment, training, and management for 30 staff, developed operations, customer engagement, and facility standards, oversaw communications, and ensured actions were completed on time and with high quality; built inclusive environment with low turnover and high levels of engagement. Contributed to preparation and transfer of day-to-day operations, created up-to-date and accurate budget, developed clear list of priorities and projects, and served as SME to prospective operators to provide data and answer questions; currently active partner.

Education

• Riverwood High School

  Diploma, High School

  1981 — 1986

• The University of Georgia

  Bachelor's degree, History

  1988 — 1991