Crif Dogs

Growing up, Raven spent her summers and after-school hours working as a server in restaurants in her home state of Texas. After joining the BR Guest Hospitality team in New York, she went on to hold several leadership positions in operations, including General Manager of Ocean Grill on the Upper West Side. A natural leader with a passion for coaching and connecting with others, Raven transitioned to Human Resources in 2019 with Casa Nela, where she led the People & Culture functions, focusing on employee engagement and experience, leadership development, succession planning, and employer branding. Raven holds a bachelor’s degree in English with honors from Sam Houston State University and is a SHRM-Certified Professional.

What is your ideal restaurant experience?

More often than not, I will choose a seat at the bar over the dining room. There's always a conversation to be had or some behind the scenes action to observe—and I love to be in the middle of the action. While traveling, I've gotten the best local recommendations during a meal from bartenders or regulars for everything from a great breakfast to try or hidden gem spots.

What does "creating workplaces where people thrive" mean to you?

One of the things I most love about the hospitality industry is the diverse workforce and the way that people with so many different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds all come together. Creating a workplace where everyone can thrive means ensuring that there is an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and heard. I think this is achieved by prioritizing the importance of relationship and trust building, along with coaching and leadership development. When everyone on the team is focused on making the people around them better, there's a foundation for everyone to reach their full potential!

Kami’s career in finance and accounting began with a personal interest in managing his own investments and taxes. After earning a bachelor's degree in English from Hunter College, he studied the fundamentals of accounting online before securing a bookkeeping position at a small accounting firm, supporting many clients in the hospitality industry, including Empowered in its early years. Kami soon advanced to a new role as Assistant Controller in the accounting department at a nationwide corporate wholesaler, managing cash flow and financial reporting for 12 locations. Now back at Empowered as our in-house finance manager, Kami's financial expertise complements his passion for people and hospitality. Outside of work, Kami is pursuing an MBA in Accountancy at Baruch College’s Zicklin School of Business.

What is your ideal restaurant experience?

My ideal restaurant experience is sharing several dishes family style with close friends. Relaxed music, calm lighting. I want to feel like I’m at home.

What does "creating workplaces where people thrive" mean to you?

Creating an environment where questions are welcome, goals are clear, and feedback is encouraged in all directions — a workplace where people are free and encouraged to grow and expand from where they started.