Bruce Russell, founder and CEO of Russell Restaurant Group, believes that food has the remarkable ability to not only satisfy appetites but also to nourish the spirit and cultivate connections. This belief led to a journey that began in 2011 with the firm idea that restaurants could serve as more than mere dining establishments.
“Through our delectable cuisine, inviting ambiance and attentive service, we aim to inspire a sense of unity and shared purpose within the communities we operate in,” said Russell. “Our restaurants are more than just spaces to savor exquisite dishes; they are platforms for change.”
Russell Restaurant Group, since its inception in 2011, has stood as a beacon of community-centric dining experiences with a commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals and organizations within the Wisconsin communities it serves.
Adapting innovative solutions is crucial as the restaurant industry undergoes significant changes, said Russell. As a result, the company has introduced QR code ordering to tackle labor shortages and controlling rising costs, implemented advanced point-of-sale systems and inventory management software and data analytics tools.
Over the past year, the company has embarked on an expansion of the business, reestablishing operations across three restaurants and reinstating employment for a workforce of over 100 individuals. “This strategic move not only bolstered the local economy but also reaffirmed the group’s position as a cornerstone of culinary excellence and community enrichment,” said Russell.
Russell said overcoming pandemic-induced labor shortages profoundly affected the workforce. “However, we proactively addressed this challenge by focusing on employee retention by fostering a positive work environment, offering competitive compensation packages and providing opportunities for career growth,” he said. The company also partnered with local culinary schools and offered internships and apprenticeships, providing students with hands-on experience while simultaneously addressing staffing needs.
“The past three years have brought unprecedented challenges to the hospitality industry, but our company of three restaurants has successfully navigated these trials to adapting to changing circumstances, nurturing our team and embracing innovation,” said Russell.
The continuous shifts have served as a leadership lesson for Russell. “We’ve learned that effective leadership transcends mere direction; it involves fostering a culture of learning, curiosity and resilience,” he said. “This journey has reminded us that leaders don’t just manage change; they inspire their teams to embrace it.”
For embracing change while imparting knowledge to his staff, Russell has been named a second-year Titan 100.
