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Cindy Keys
Director of Purchasing at Snooze an A.M. Eatery
Professional Background
Cindy Keys has built a robust career in the food and beverage industry, showcasing her exceptional skills and expertise through various leadership roles. Currently serving as the Director of Purchasing at Snooze an A.M. Eatery, Cindy plays an integral part in streamlining operations and ensuring quality standards that align with the restaurant’s values. With her extensive background, she brings a wealth of knowledge in purchasing logistics and operational efficiency that enhances Snooze’s culinary offerings and customer satisfaction.
Prior to her position at Snooze, Cindy was the Corporate Merchandise Manager at Vistar/PFG Company, where she honed her managerial skills and acquired deep insights into inventory management and corporate procurement strategies. Her role required keen analytical skills and a strategic mindset to optimize merchandise flow, which directly contributed to the company’s growth and profitability.
Cindy's previous experience as the Food & Beverage Controller at Mortons of Chicago equipped her with a solid foundation in financial management within the food service sector. She adeptly managed budgets, ensured compliance with financial protocols, and streamlined processes that enhanced the operational efficiency of the restaurant group. This role also allowed her to collaborate closely with culinary teams, enabling her to contribute to menu development decisions from both a financial and quality perspective.
Cindy's journey in the food and beverage management arena began with her diverse engagements at Matt Prentice Restaurant Group. Over the years, she held several positions, including hostess, server, corporate trainer, catering director, assistant manager, and ultimately general manager. Each role served as a stepping stone, allowing her to accumulate invaluable experience and develop a comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations. Her hands-on experience in customer service and team leadership contributed significantly to her growth as a well-rounded hospitality professional.
Education and Achievements
Cindy Keys’ educational background reflects her commitment to continuous learning and professional development. She pursued a Certificate of Tax Preparation at H&R Block, demonstrating her desire to understand the financial aspects that lie at the core of business operations.
Her passion for communication and media led her to earn a Certificate in Radio/Television Broadcasting from Spec Howard School of Broadcasting. This education not only honed her communication skills but also provided her with the ability to effectively convey ideas and engage audiences—crucial skills in any managerial role.
Cindy's academic journey includes an Associate of Science Degree in Business Communications from Wayne State University, where she refined her understanding of business operations and the importance of effective communication in fostering workplace relationships and enhancing team performance.
Additionally, she laid the foundation for her education at Troy High, where she developed critical thinking and interpersonal skills that have served her throughout her professional journey.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Cindy Keys has achieved notable successes that underscore her dedication and capability in food and beverage management. Her ability to navigate complex challenges and implement effective strategies has positioned her as a respected leader in her field.
At Snooze an A.M. Eatery, Cindy has been instrumental in enhancing vendor relationships and sourcing high-quality ingredients that elevate the dining experience for guests. Her innovative approach to purchasing has led to improved cost efficiencies and product availability, allowing the restaurant to remain competitive in the dynamic market of casual dining.
As Corporate Merchandise Manager at Vistar/PFG Company, Cindy played a key role in modernizing inventory control systems, leading to improved accuracy and a reduction in excess inventory. This initiative not only increased the company's profit margins but also solidified her reputation as a forward-thinking leader committed to operational excellence.
Cindy's tenure at Mortons of Chicago as Food & Beverage Controller is characterized by her successful management of large-scale budgets and financial audits. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to best practices ensured compliance and minimized financial risks across multiple locations.
In her earlier roles at Matt Prentice Restaurant Group, Cindy developed training programs for staff, enhancing customer service delivery and fostering a culture of excellence within dining establishments. Her commitment to nurturing talent and building effective teams has contributed to the overall success of the restaurants she managed.
In summary, Cindy Keys is a proven professional with a diverse skill set in food and beverage management, procurement, and communications. Her educational background, combined with her extensive hands-on experience, positions her as a valuable asset to any organization in the hospitality and restaurant industry. By continuously striving for improvement and fostering impactful relationships both within her teams and with external partners, Cindy embodies the qualities of a dedicated leader equipped to drive success in any culinary environment.
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