American Express and Resy Introduce the Restaurant Academy for Future Leaders

American Express and Resy Launch the Restaurant Academy

In an exciting development for the restaurant industry, American Express and Resy have partnered with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to create the Restaurant Academy. This innovative program is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the restaurant sector, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in a competitive market.

A Commitment to Restaurant Leadership

The Restaurant Academy aims to bridge the gap in formal training for restaurant owners and operators, providing a structured framework for leadership development. Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at American Express, emphasized the initiative's alignment with the company’s long-standing investment in leadership development. By adapting successful concepts from their previous Leadership Academy, American Express aims to bring them to a critical sector that drives much of the economy.

Pablo Rivero, CEO of Resy and Senior Vice President at American Express Global Dining, articulated the importance of strong teams in the restaurant business and highlighted how the Restaurant Academy would empower operators to build those teams. The program's focus on real-world application and mentorship will enhance the overall dining experience for customers and strengthen business resilience.

Structured Learning for Today’s Restaurant Managers

Participants in the Restaurant Academy will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum structured around three key pillars:

1. Strengthening Leadership and Teams: The program will provide practical tools for hiring, onboarding, and retaining staff. It will emphasize coaching and developing career pathways to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of delivering exceptional service.

2. Enhancing Guest Experience: Understanding that hospitality is at the heart of the restaurant industry, the Academy will train leaders in effective communication, active listening, and managing high-pressure situations to ensure a positive experience for guests.

3. Financial Acumen for Sustainability: Restaurant owners and managers will receive training on financial literacy covering profit and loss statements, food and labor costs, and vendor management. This knowledge will connect day-to-day operations with long-term financial health and growth.

Learning from Industry Leaders

One of the standout features of the Restaurant Academy is its access to celebrated industry leaders. Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn directly from noteworthy figures such as James Beard Award winners like Mashama Bailey, Gregory Gourdet, and Nok Suntaranon. This mentorship aspect is crucial, as it offers firsthand insights from those who have shaped the industry and can provide valuable lessons on innovation and resilience.

Building a Brighter Future

The Restaurant Academy is not just about short-term gains; its long-term goal is to strengthen the leadership pipeline within the restaurant industry. By fostering talent from within, the program aims to enhance not only individual career trajectories but also the overall quality of the dining experience.

Michelle Korsmo, CEO of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, noted that restaurants often serve as incubators for talented leaders, emphasizing their role in nurturing leadership potential. The Academy seeks to unlock this potential and convert it into sustainable career paths for participants.

Program Details and Application Process

Scheduled to run from September 2026 through March 2027, the Restaurant Academy will gather 30 restaurant leaders from across the country. The program includes facilitated sessions led by renowned industry figures and peer networking opportunities. An in-person gathering in the fall is also planned to foster connection and collaboration among participants.

For those interested in joining this pivotal program, further information and application details can be found on the Restaurant Academy’s official website.

As both a training platform and a network of support, the Restaurant Academy stands to make a transformative impact on the future of restaurant leadership, ultimately elevating the industry as a whole. By investing in the skills and knowledge of current and future leaders, American Express, Resy, and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation are setting the stage for a vibrant and sustainable restaurant ecosystem.