Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Donato.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My management career began 25 years ago, as an assistant manager of a casual-service restaurant in my hometown of Elmont, Long Island. I continued in the restaurant field while earning my first degree. Shortly thereafter, I was offered an opportunity to work for my first hotel. I worked in hotels and restaurants for the next 20 years, where I held leadership positions in Food and Beverage, Rooms Division, and Sales.
In 2012, I was presented with an opportunity to teach a class at a well-known culinary school in New York City. Little did I know that it would change the trajectory of my future! In 2013, I moved from New York City to Miami, Florida. In addition to the physical move, I also made a career move from working in the hospitality industry, to preparing others to work in the hospitality industry. Since moving to Miami, I have been working as an adjunct professor at various colleges and universities in Miami and Broward counties.
I have been operating a consulting business since 2013, focused on helping organizations increase profitability. Although I consult businesses on a wide range of topics, my expertise is in customer service and operations management. In addition to my work experience, I hold an MBA, a certification as a Six Sigma Black Belt Professional, and am in the dissertation stage of a Doctor of Business Administration degree in International Business.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My personal and professional life experiences have not always worked out as expected. However, in hindsight, I realize that the tough lessons learned made me wiser, and able to handle future successes and setbacks. One such experience stands out in my mind, which was my first attempted move to Florida. In 2004, to start anew in Miami, leaving a very good job in New York. I expected to have no issues finding a similar position here, but it turned out to be anything but the case. It was very difficult for me to find a job, and when I eventually did, the position was not at the same level or salary as expected.
The inability to find an ideal position, led me to pursue licensure in both real estate and mortgage brokerage. My accomplishment was rather short lived, however, because of the start of the economic downturn in 2007. I soon found myself underemployed, and desperate to find a way out of my situation. The answer came from an unexpected source – my previous employer in New York. I was offered my old job back, with a handsome raise, but it meant I had to leave Miami.
I had much success in New York, but I always longed for the life I left in Miami. After six years of living in New York, the Universe aligned, and I found a way to return to Miami. The rest, as they say, is history!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My consulting company is focused on helping organizations improve profitability and operational efficiency. I work with organizations to identify operational inefficiencies that hinder business growth, and in the end, business profit. In most cases, these inefficiencies are resolved by restructuring procedures and implementing policies to ensure a permanent solution.
Many of the companies I work with are sole proprietorships, and new business startups. Oftentimes, what small businesses and startups lack is structure. I customize solutions based on my clients’ needs. However, every solution is derived from years of experience of working for multimillion dollar corporations. My understanding of the “best practices” used by successful organizations, and my diverse experiences and education, are the factors that set me apart from others.
What were you like growing up?
I was a pretty good kid, but had a strong independent nature that sometimes got me into trouble. I was responsible with my studies, and I liked school, but could have applied myself more in high school. I preferred to spend time with a small group of friends, rather than in large groups. This is still the case today.
I grew up in a very diverse neighborhood, and because of family in Europe, I traveled often from a very young age. My family also enjoyed skiing, equestrian riding, and thoroughbred horse racing. My exposure to diversity, and experiences gained from international travel, shaped my perspective. It broadened my understanding and appreciation of cultures, customs, and of the world in general.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.robertdonatoconsulting.com
- Phone: 305-788-9714
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertdonatoconsulting
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MgmtAnswers
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-a-donato-37318316
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