Aaron Harris

Culinary Instructor at Aramark

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

About

Accomplished and results-driven professional with a robust background of success in progressively leadership roles within the hospitality and culinary industry. Proven success in steering high-performing teams, managing budgets, and exceeding financial targets. Recognized for driving employee satisfaction initiatives, optimizing service quality in diverse dining venues. A strategic decision-maker with a track record of providing valuable insights and recommendations. Well-versed in regulatory compliance, performance evaluations, and fostering a culture of adherence to policies. Ready to leverage extensive experience to contribute to the success of a dynamic team.

Experience

  • Culinary Instructor at Aramark
    Oct 2024 - Present · 1 yr 9 mos

  • General Manager at Sodexo
    May 2025

  • General Manager at Company-Compass Group/Unidine
    Jan 2023 - May 2025 · 2 yrs 5 mos

    Supervise and lead a team of 8 managers/supervisors and 75 hourly staff, fostering a cohesive and high-performing work environment. Responsible for managing budgets and executing payroll processes, ensuring financial efficiency and adherence to fiscal targets. Spearhead the training and onboarding initiatives for new managers and staff, facilitating a seamless integration into the organizational culture. Drive initiatives to enhance resident and employee satisfaction and retention, employing strategies to elevate overall workplace morale. Oversee the operations of 4 dining venues and catering services, implementing effective management strategies to optimize service quality. Contribute to strategic decision-making processes, providing valuable insights and recommendations to support the overall goals of the organization. Conduct regular performance evaluations for managers and staff, identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted development plans. Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards, fostering a culture of adherence to policies and procedures for a smooth operational workflow.

  • Regional Director of Operations at Next Level Hospitality, Mid-Atlantic Region
    Jan 2022 - Jan 2023 · 1 yr 1 mo

    Spearhead comprehensive oversight of operations spanning 16 properties located in various states. Provide strategic direction and mentorship to a dynamic team of over 30 Culinary Managers. Manage a substantial business budget, exceeding $11 Million, with a keen focus on fiscal responsibility. Employ sophisticated analytics to curate innovative menus and establish time-managed goals for optimal efficiency. Cultivate and sustain robust professional relationships with clients, administration, and the VP of Culinary & EVS. Formulate meticulous budgets for potential business ventures while meticulously adhering to existing financial parameters. Conduct monthly audits, meticulously ensuring cleanliness, strict budget compliance, and regulatory alignment through simulated Health Department inspections/surveys.

  • General Manager at Silver Spring, MD, Sodexo
    Jan 2019 - Jan 2022 · 3 yrs 1 mo

    Supervise and lead a diverse team of 16 direct reports, ensuring unwavering adherence to contract performance metrics. Drive the recruitment, training, and retention of staff, maintaining optimal staffing levels for operational excellence. Diligently monitor and control budgetary allocations, showcasing financial acumen and responsibility. Pioneered the implementation of innovative policies and procedures, resulting in heightened team efficiency. Manage intricate scheduling intricacies and meticulously prepare payroll, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Exercise comprehensive oversight over all facility services, encompassing both soft services and café operations.