MATT RUSSELL, F.M.P.
**** ***** ******* *****, ****** Texas 78734
***************@*****.***
Experienced executive with proven success in leading multiple brands, regional/national teams, developing talent, and driving business growth. I am a passionate and results-focused leader with over 20 years of executive/senior leadership experience. Creating the proper balance between an organization’s values, operational objectives, and protecting brand identities has been foundational to all the successful concepts I have developed. I excel at building positive cultures, facilitating internal communication between key leaders, developing new products/services, new location openings, and mentoring leaders. My strong financial acumen combined with my experience in operations, marketing, and contract negotiations allow me to help organizations grow revenue, control costs, and create sustainable EBITDA.
WORK EXPERIENCE
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS, 2024 -2025
VIEWHOUSE
Responsible for the overall operations, marketing, HR, culinary, and financials of four high-volume restaurants and bars featuring, full-service dining, chef-driven menus, craft cocktails, and high-energy rooftops.
Total revenue exceeding 30 million dollars
Direct reports included Marketing Managers, the Recruitment Manager, the Director of Operations, 4 General Managers, 36 salaried managers, and 400 hourly team members.
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, 2022 -2023
NEW REALM BREWING AND DISTILLING COMPANY
Responsible for 5 full-service restaurants and breweries featuring scratch kitchens run by Executive Chefs with up to 650 seating capacities, rooftop bars, and large concerts venus.
Forecasting annual budgets, creating new menu items, implementing manager incentive programs, and full P and L responsibility for all operations.
Lead efforts in real estate acquisition diligence, restaurant design, construction management, and marketing.
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS, 2010-2022
CMX / CINEBISTRO
Responsible for all operations of 31 units with an excess of $225 million in revenue per year.
Operations included Stone Sports Bar, Traditional Theatres, and CineBistro. CineBistro was a world-class restaurant and luxury theatre concept featuring scratch kitchens, craft bar mixology, and curated wine lists. (VA, NC, GA, OH, FL, IL, NY, NJ, DC, MN)
Oversaw four Regional Operations Directors and the Corporate Training department.
Successfully mentored/promoted a V.P. of Culinary, Corporate Executive Chef, Corporate Training Manager, Senior General Managers, General Managers, and Executive Chefs.
Started as a GM and was promoted to Regional, VP of CineBistro, and VP of CMX/CineBistro.
GENERAL MANAGER, 2009-2010
GREENE TURTLE SPORTS BAR, INC
Opened and oversaw all new stores in VA.
Responsible for the successful opening of the Fredericksburg, VA location.
AREA DIRECTOR, 2004 - 2009
CSM RESTAURANT SERVICES
Responsible for the overall operation, marketing, and human resources for three restaurants and sports bars in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Opened and created an upscale sports bar and grill in Richmond, VA for private ownership.
Was promoted from General Manager to Area Director in 2005.
GENERAL MANAGER, 2003 -2004
TOTAL ENTERTAINMENT LLC. – FOX AND HOUND
Responsible for the overall operations of a sports bar and grill in Richmond, VA.
Number one net income unit percentage in 2004.
OWNER / OPERATOR, 2001 - 2003
WINGS SPORTS BAR, LLC
Founded a sports bar and grill in Denton, Texas from the ground up.
Sole owner/operator – sourced all financing, construction, menu planning, and licensing.
Successfully orchestrated the profitable sale of the business to a local businessman.
EDUCATION
B.B.A. STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS
Member of North Texas 40 – Top 40 Leaders at UNT, chosen by the University President.
President Sigma Phi Epsilon 1999.
SERIES 7, SERIES 66, NASD NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE INC.
Licensed to sell insurance and securities products.
F.M.P. - FOOD SERVICE MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL, NATIONAL
RESTAURANT EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Certifies the highest level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism that signifies a mastery of competencies in areas of food safety, human resources, financials, and branding.
CX CERTIFIED – CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE – UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND
Certifies the ability to gain a deep understanding of an organization’s best practices and their effects on its customer’s experiences. Enact positive change by using data analytics. overall brand value/perception in the marketplace.
CX ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER, 2020 - 2023
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND
Assist and advise the University of Richmond facility members and staff with the implementation of the Customer Experience (CX) program.
Actively engage the companies, students, and individuals that enroll in the CX Program.
SKILLS
People First Mentality
Team Building
Financial Results Driven
OSHA GHS Certified
Strong problem-solving abilities
Excels at Public Speaking
Tips Alcohol 2024
Serve Safe Certified 2024