Van Kirk

About Van Kirk

As a seasoned Corporate Food Safety Manager with more than 15 years in the industry, I specialize in conducting food safety evaluations, consulting and coaching on the latest health and sanitation practices, and building strong relationships with clients. My experience spans managing budgets, streamlining operations, enhancing communication, and fostering team development within fast-paced restaurant environments. I excel at implementing strategic plans to improve productivity and quality standards while resolving complex problems. My skill set includes a wide range of regulatory compliance, change management, P&L management, and operational excellence. I have proven these skills by consistently achieving restaurant operational objectives and significantly reducing employee turnover rates.My track record speaks for itself: I have overseen restaurant districts with annual sales exceeding 150 million dollars, created and managed HACCP & QA programs, spearheaded worker training programs that decreased turnover from 158% to 62% in less than a year, and managed drink menu changes that resulted in a 38% rise in beverage sales.If you are looking for a dynamic leader who can significantly improve your food safety protocols while driving bottom-line growth, let\'s connect.

Experience

1. District Manager - Ecosure, a Division of Ecolab

   Ecolab Food Safety Specialties

   Aug 2021 — Present

   As a dedicated District Manager at EcoSure, I bring extensive expertise in implementing and managing OSHA, PCQI, HAACP, Quality Assurance, and GFSI standards. My commitment to excellence ensures that all safety and quality protocols are meticulously followed, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and compliance.With a strong focus on people development, I am passionate about mentoring and empowering my team of quality assurance advisors to achieve their full potential. My leadership style emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and strategic thinking, driving individual and organizational success.In addition to managing and growing existing businesses, I excel at pitching and closing new business opportunities. My strategic approach and persuasive communication skills enable me to expand our client base and drive revenue growth effectively.

Education

• Winthrop University

  Bachelor's degree, Human Resources Management and Services

  1997 — 2001

• Xavier University

  Master's of Psychology, Cognitive Psychology

• University of California, Berkeley

  Master's of Science, Public Health