Meet Ted Carlson, Operations Director at Pillar Restaurant Group (prgnebraska.com).

Tell us a little about your business. – Pillar Restaurant Group is a locally owned company that consists of five main concepts, Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, Venue Restaurant & Lounge, Piedmont Bistro by Venue, Venue at Home and Venue Catering & Events with The Bakery, The Butchery, the Jasmine Room by Venue and the Scottish Rite Ballroom by Venue. Each of our restaurants are unique in their own way of providing a high level of hospitality, quality food and genuine relationships within our community.

How did you get started in the business? – I began my career in the industry at age 14 cooking, hosting and supervising at a local Village Inn. When the time came to focus on choosing a career, I felt a leadership role in the hospitality industry was the best fit for me. To further my opportunity for growth, I joined a locally owned franchise of Applebee’s where I remained for 20 years. My career at the Bee’s included many functions with many of them coming as a Multi-Unit Director overseeing several locations across the Midwest.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – When Hurricane Katrina hit Ocean Springs, Mississippi our Applebee’s location was one of only a few restaurants that made it through the storm, and I was asked to lead the reopening and establish a process to help the team get back on their feet with clothing, housing and funds to support their families. Within an hour of my arrival at the restaurant, we opened to first feed first responders as we pulled a game plan together to open to the community. By offering a no-water menu, we were able to open the next day. In all my years in the hospitality industry it was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my career. I’m proud to say the restaurant was one of the cornerstones to the town rebuilding.

Tell us a little about your family. – I am a devoted father of three children that I am very proud of. Kade is 16, Ella is 12, and Ava is soon to be 11. All three are very active with sports including hockey for all three during the winter and baseball/softball in the summertime. Their activities take us all over the country to compete.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Cheer on my children during one of their many sporting events! During the off season I love to cook, participate in outdoor activities and socialize with friends.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Put time between stimulus and reaction. The purpose is not to react with emotion but to allow time to formulate a strategic and thoughtful response.

What is your favorite movie? – Pulp Fiction or anything Quentin Tarantino directs. I enjoy his unique way of storytelling and excellent cinematography skills.

What is your favorite TV show? – The Sopranos. Nuff said.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – ted@yourvenue.net