Kelly Phillips

Kelly Phillips


Senior Hospitality Manager of Rose's Restaurant Group


I knew this profession was right for me on Day 2. When I survived Day 1 and was like "What was that?" – I knew I wanted to be good at it, even if it would take me years to achieve the confidence that I was.


EXPERIENCE
EDUCATION
There is always a challenge and I find real meaning in solving problems, especially if it makes someone's day better or someone's job easier. The best days are when I get to promote someone or give them a raise – it's going to be very meaningful for them and that is rewarding to me.
Learning how to say “no” and understanding your limits helps avoid burnout.
When it comes to podcasts, I listen regularly to CherryBombe Radio – for work and pleasure!
I use movement for self-care; whether it's dance, a long bike ride, or other exercise.
Stop checking email/texts after 8pm, and put your device away. Allow for time in nature every day.
In terms of technology, I rely on Marginedge and 7Shifts to help me do my job.
I make it a priority to be aware of what other women on my team are going through and to be empathetic to the challenges they face and opportunities that they need.
We removed tipping at all of our restaurants in 2020, by implementing a service charge and shifting our full-time servers and bartenders to salaried positions with monthly bonuses to incentivize excellent service. I could not have done that without a team of people who work together and were willing to try this model that creates stability for everyone.
I'm always reading and my focus has been on leadership skills and how to be a better communicator.
I find inspiration through travel and discovering amazing restaurants around the world.
Restaurants have taught me the importance of patience and being able to receive feedback. I learn something new every day.
I communicate with my team often. I tell them our goals, I make them feel seen and included in what is happening at the restaurant so they feel involved and invested in. I celebrate them whenever I can, and I do my best to make them laugh because it's important that we're having a good time. Even if a shift is crazy.
When hiring, I look for the candidate with the ability to be a team player. We cannot do this alone.
It is important to have flexibility and adaptability. Things change, every day and situations are different, so you need to be able to go with the flow and adjust with the times.
Timeliness is essential, because if you aren't there on time, it doesn't matter how talented you are.
I grew up with financial hardship, so I am very conservative with a budget and that has made me a more responsible leader. I learned how to get creative with what we have to make the best decisions for our businesses.
Discovering and promoting great people is how I was able to move up. If there is someone amazing to fill my role, then I can focus on what's next.
I staged at Zahav in Philadelphia and it changed the way I thought about leadership. I've learned to lead with big energy because you cannot expect passion from your team if you are not excited to be there yourself.
Ask for help! You can avoid so many mistakes and expenses if you reach out to your peers who have been through this before.

Disclaimer: Individuals featured in the Inspirational Career Timelines section have been nominated by peers, colleagues and/or other members of the hospitality industry. It is to the best of our knowledge that each individual has demonstrated leadership and acted as a positive role model for others.


Send Us Your Nominations

If you know of any extraordinary food, beverage and hospitality professionals who inspire others through their hard work and leadership, nominate them now!


Nominate

Search industry jobs here


Get Inspired by Industry Leaders

Explore their unique career timelines and advice about what they’ve learned along the way

Discover more about Hospitality Careers


Categories
Culinary
Pastry & Baking
Wine & Beverage
Service
Office & Admin
Media
Experience
Career Changer
International Experience
James Beard Award