Nicholas Graff Email & Phone Number

Colorado

At Noodles & Company, my role as Vice President of Culinary R&D and Executive Chef involved leading our culinary vision and executing strategies that shaped our menu's future. I handled everything from recipe ideation and development to cost analysis and final product specifications, ensuring our offerings were not only delicious but also cost-effective and aligned with our brand values. Here's how I made a difference: Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Streamlined production processes across various locations, standardizing recipe development and testing protocols. Pioneered Culinary Innovations: Introduced sustainable practices and animal welfare techniques into our culinary operations, setting new industry benchmarks. Drove Culinary Excellence: Managed large-scale culinary presentations and focus groups that significantly influenced our menu strategy and customer satisfaction. Leadership and Training: Developed comprehensive training materials and provided strategic guidance to elevate overall restaurant performance and staff competencies. Boosted Brand Visibility: Represented the brand in media, enhancing our public relations efforts and engaging customers through effective promotional activities.Direct Report - CEO & CMO

Denver, Colorado

In my role at Quiznos, I spearheaded the innovation and development of new products, overseeing the journey from concept to market introduction. My collaboration with Marketing ensured that our product rollouts were well-received during our Limited Time Offer (LTO) events: Innovative Menu Enhancements: Reformulated existing offerings to align with the latest culinary trends, improving both quality and consistency. Operational Training and Compliance: Worked closely with the Training and Quality Assurance departments to maintain high standards and compliance across all platforms. Strategic Leadership: Provided vital insights and leadership that directly influenced product development and marketing strategies.Direct Report - CMO

Louisville, Co

At CraftWorks, my role encompassed managing the development and rollout of new menu items and ensuring operational excellence across our locations. I was pivotal in optimizing our menu offerings and operational strategies: Streamlined Menu Rollouts: Developed and implemented strategic processes to enhance the efficiency and success of new menu introductions. Budget and Operations Management: Consistently met budget targets through effective cost-control strategies and enhanced operational procedures. Training and Development: Created comprehensive training modules that significantly boosted staff capabilities and operational success. New Store Development: Played a crucial role in new store openings, optimizing store layouts for functionality and overseeing all training and procurement processes.Direct Report - Vice President of Training & Operations

High volume restaurant; annual gross revenue exceeding $7 millionMaintain high quality food specs in a fast paced environment.Managed kitchen budget, staff members, scheduling and disciplinary actionsResponsible for par and prep levels for restaurant and banquet services.

High volume restaurant; annual gross revenue exceeding $4 million

High volume restaurant; annual gross revenue exceeding $4 million

Completed Culinary Institute externship curriculum and training in fine dining.

Aos, Culinary Arts (Scholastic Honors - First In Class), Culinary Arts, 4.0

Activities and Societies: Judiciary Board McCann Center Management President's Recognition - GH Ford Award Dean's List

Culinary Arts Program, 3.7

High School Diploma, Culinary Science/Culinology, 3.5