BIO: Vanessa began her career in the food and beverage industry over 17 years ago as a line cook and Sous Chef working for some of NYC's most celebrated chefs including Eric Ripert, Tom Colicchio, and Wesley Genovart. She transitioned to front of the house management, and later earned the title of Director of Operations of the Roberta's restaurant group, with its numerous entities. Vanessa is a co-owner of Spirit, a restaurant/bar, music venue, and community event space that Esquire named one of the Best Bars in America in 2017. Vanessa is also co-owner of Mia Natural Inc., a beverage company that is bringing the incredible health benefits of the sea buckthorn berry to the world. Prior to her work in the hospitality industry, Vanessa conducted ethnographic and design research, specializing in User Experience Design, Human Factors and Ergonomics in the technology sector. Vanessa is the owner and principal of Vanessa Rimando LLC. She leads her clients through individual and team coaching sessions, and consults with her clients on strategic planning, leadership development, and food safety. Vanessa graduated from Cornell University with a BS in Design and Environmental Analysis, and her certifications include lead HACCP Instructor, Seafood HACCP, Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI), and is in the certification review process with 3 international accrediting institutions for Professional Coaching (PCC, SP, & BCC).