Grace Harnisch

Grace Harnisch currently serves as the Manager at Backstage Tavern & Bardough Restaurants, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing daily operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences, and driving strategic initiatives that align with the company's mission. In her leadership capacity, Grace manages two dynamic venues—Backstage Tavern with a capacity of 500 guests and Bardough Restaurants accommodating 150—where she is responsible for coordinating large-scale events, optimizing service delivery, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Her expertise in operational management is complemented by her hands-on approach to training and supervising a diverse team of over 35 employees, fostering a collaborative environment that emphasizes customer service excellence and operational efficiency.

Grace’s role involves meticulous oversight of opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and troubleshooting daily operational challenges, ensuring seamless restaurant functions. Her strong interpersonal skills and leadership acumen enable her to motivate staff, enhance team performance, and uphold a positive workplace culture. Beyond her operational responsibilities, Grace actively contributes to community engagement and philanthropic efforts, leveraging her skills in fundraising and stakeholder communication to support local initiatives.

With a background in Global Business and Entrepreneurship from Fordham University, Magna Cum Laude, Grace brings a strategic mindset and a passion for sustainable practices to her role. Her commitment to ESG principles informs her approach to responsible management, emphasizing environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and sound governance. Through her multifaceted expertise—ranging from customer service and team leadership to operational troubleshooting and community outreach—Grace Harnisch continues to make a meaningful impact in the hospitality industry while exemplifying the values she champions both professionally and personally.