Andiamo Names New Director of Marketing and New Corporate Chef
Laurie Williams to head up Marketing, Chef Jim Blake to oversee all foodservice
Andiamo, Metro Detroit's top chain of authentic Italian eateries has filled two key positions within the organization. Laurie Williams, a native of Warren, Michigan, was named Director of Marketing. Jim Blake, who was born in Minneapolis, MN, will serve as Corporate Chef for Andiamo. The announcement was made by Joe Vicari, owner of the widely celebrated restaurants.
"Ms. Williams and Chef Blake both have tremendous experience in the restaurant business," Vicari said. "We're delighted to have them join the Andiamo family."
Williams, who has over 15 years of restaurant management experience, is a former Vice-President of Player Development at Greektown Casino and is a former member of the Ontario Restaurant Association Board of Directors. In her new position, Williams will be responsible for administering the chain's new "Mille Grazie" loyalty program. She will also work with all ten Andiamo locations to develop special events and promotions; as well as oversee the Andiamo Restaurant Group's overall marketing efforts. She currently resides in Cottom, Ontario, with her husband and two daughters.
Chef Jim Blake was a corporate chef for Chuck Muer restaurants in Detroit and the Levy restaurants in Chicago. Prior to those positions, Blake owned Finlayson's Fine Foods in Minneapolis. He attended the University of Minnesota where he majored in business administration. In his new position, Chef Blake will monitor quality control, research & development, purchasing and training. In addition, Blake will be instrumental in helping to open new Andiamo restaurants. He currently resides in Highland, MI, with his wife and two daughters.
Andiamo is Metro Detroit's premier chain of authentic Italian restaurants with 10 locations in the tri-county area.
"Ms. Williams and Chef Blake both have tremendous experience in the restaurant business," Vicari said. "We're delighted to have them join the Andiamo family."
Williams, who has over 15 years of restaurant management experience, is a former Vice-President of Player Development at Greektown Casino and is a former member of the Ontario Restaurant Association Board of Directors. In her new position, Williams will be responsible for administering the chain's new "Mille Grazie" loyalty program. She will also work with all ten Andiamo locations to develop special events and promotions; as well as oversee the Andiamo Restaurant Group's overall marketing efforts. She currently resides in Cottom, Ontario, with her husband and two daughters.
Chef Jim Blake was a corporate chef for Chuck Muer restaurants in Detroit and the Levy restaurants in Chicago. Prior to those positions, Blake owned Finlayson's Fine Foods in Minneapolis. He attended the University of Minnesota where he majored in business administration. In his new position, Chef Blake will monitor quality control, research & development, purchasing and training. In addition, Blake will be instrumental in helping to open new Andiamo restaurants. He currently resides in Highland, MI, with his wife and two daughters.
Andiamo is Metro Detroit's premier chain of authentic Italian restaurants with 10 locations in the tri-county area.
