Andrew Papanicolas
Wilmington,DE
Summary
Dynamic Director with over 20 years of leadership experience in the restaurant industry, specializing in strategic partnerships, contract negotiation, and multi-unit operations. Proven track record of spearheading high-impact sports partnerships with renowned organizations such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Aberdeen IronBirds, Philadelphia Union, and University of Delaware football, resulting in substantial brand visibility enhancements. Successfully negotiated a high-profile endorsement deal with MLB pitcher Cole Hamels while managing over $10 million in annual sales, driving significant revenue growth and operational efficiency. Expertise in fostering collaborative relationships and implementing innovative strategies to elevate business performance.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Franchisee / Owner-Operator
Seasons Pizza
Aston, PA
01.2019 - Current
- Owned and operated a successful Seasons Pizza franchise location in Aston, Pennsylvania for seven years.
- Managed all aspects of business operations including P&L responsibility, staffing, marketing, and customer satisfaction.
- Drove revenue growth through community engagement, local marketing initiatives, and operational excellence.
- Maintained brand standards while implementing localized strategies to maximize profitability.
Director of Operations
Seasons Pizza, Multi-State Restaurant Chain
Newcastle County
01.2003 - Current
- Cultivated and expanded strategic partnerships in football, baseball, and soccer, fostering brand connections with prominent regional teams and their fan communities.
- Negotiated a marquee player endorsement deal with high profile professional player elevating brand recognition and community engagement.
- Managed over $10 million in annual sales, overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and profitability for multiple locations.
- Directed cross-functional teams of managers and staff, improving operational performance, consistency, and customer satisfaction.
- Built and maintained long-term sponsorship relationships with the Philadelphia Phillies, Aberdeen IronBirds (minor league baseball), Philadelphia Union, and University of Delaware football program.
- Developed and implemented training programs for management teams across multiple locations.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
General Manager
Seasons Pizza
Newark DE
01.1998 - 01.2003
- Oversaw daily restaurant operations including staffing, training, inventory control, and guest experience for a high-volume location.
- Led a location generating approximately $2.5 million in annual sales, with accountability for hitting revenue and profitability targets.
- Recruited, trained, and scheduled team members, improving service quality and reducing staff turnover.
- Implemented streamlined operating procedures to enhance labor efficiency, control food and supply costs, and maintain compliance with health and safety standards.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Business Management
Goldey Beacom College
Pike Creek DESkills
- Contract Negotiation
- Team Leadership
- Strategic Partnerships
- Marketing Strategy
- Business Expansion
- Sports Sponsorship Relationship Management
- Brand compliance
- Franchise relations
- Operations management
- Technology proficiency
Websites
Timeline
Franchisee / Owner-Operator
Seasons Pizza
01.2019 - Current
Director of Operations
Seasons Pizza, Multi-State Restaurant Chain
01.2003 - Current
General Manager
Seasons Pizza
01.1998 - 01.2003
Some College (No Degree) - Business Management
Goldey Beacom College
Military Service
- United States Marine Corps
- Six years of service, Honorably Discharged.
- Developed leadership, discipline, and team cohesion in high-pressure environments.
Career Highlights
20+ years of progressive leadership in the restaurant industry, from unit-level General Manager to corporate Director to Franchisee/Owner-Operator. Proven expertise in driving revenue growth, building strategic partnerships, and scaling operations across multiple locations. Successfully negotiated high-profile sports endorsements and sponsorships that elevated brand recognition and community engagement throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.