Expertise

• Operations systems and control
• Concept Development
• Performance Management
• Staff Training

As an operations specialist, concept/business developer, and catalyst for business and profit improvement/turnarounds, Mr. Gilfillan brings expertise to established companies by centering executives on primary objectives and critical issues facing the organization and developing/implementing strategies to improve average unit volumes, unit and area profitability, and overall operating structure.

He also helps start up, grow, and improve emerging brands through concept ideation and creation, property acquisition and site selection, and the creation or enhancement of policies, procedures, systems, and controls to help make certain their proper growth pattern and strategic success. Mr. Gilfillan has over 25 years of experience in several sectors of the food service industry.

Most recently, Mr. Gilfillan was Director of Operations for Flat Rock Grille, a $15 million, upscale casual seafood concept targeted for eventual sale. With the company operating 6 units in 4 states, three collaborative venture capital groups recruited and brought him in to turnaround operations, establish the brand, and realize the strategic sale plan. During his tenure, Mr. Gilfillan stabilized operations, helped design and build the new prototype unit, helped develop the recognizable brand, provided the operational framework for increased efficiency, and was instrumental in recruiting and building a field management team which provided the impetus for the successful sale of the company.

Previously, Mr. Gilfillan was COO for The Harper's Restaurant Group, a $31 million, multi-concept restaurant company with 11 operating units in 3 states. At the behest of HRG owners, he was brought in and challenged to turn around an unprofitable company. Reacting quickly, he was able to engineer a comeback which increased profits by $1,275,000 over a 36 month period and build a sustainable, long-term positive cash flow and ROI position.

He also directed the branding, development, and acquisition of 5 separate restaurant concepts ranging from QSR/fast casual to fine dining during his 8 years with the company. The company received numerous national and local awards including Nation's Restaurant News "Hot Concept" designation and Top 25 New Restaurants in America by Esquire Magazine as well being a recipient of the prestigious DiRoNa and Wine Spectator Award of Excellence designations.

Mr. Gilfillan joined the Harper's Group in 1997, helped grow the company into the multi-concept format it is today, and was responsible for the leadership and development of all departmental functions of the company.

Prior to Harper's, Mr. Gilfillan was General Manager of a $45 million division of Dobbs International Services, Inc. which operated all flight kitchens in Chicago, Illinois for United Airlines. Directing the largest airline catering hub in the U.S., Mr. Gilfillan was able to stabilize these high profile operating centers by turning $6 million annualized losses into sustained profitability within 8 months of taking charge.

Concurrently, he provided the leadership for a smooth transition of the acquisition of these profit centers from United Airlines' parent company, UAL, Inc.

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