Beverage Director Amanda Reed and Chef Kimberley Cosway may be the force behind the incredible & unique pairing program at Heartwood Provisions, but General Manager Jennifer Tivald is the essence of true hospitality. We sat down with Jennifer to learn what drives her passion to create and elevate service standards throughout the restaurant.
Jennifer Tivald: With time comes experience. There is no replacement for the opportunity of spending time learning and growing in a career. Starting from the bottom and working one’s way up in a field allows for deep knowledge and understanding of that profession, resulting in the ability to teach others effectively. It is absolutely necessary for anyone in a management role to have that deep understanding of the jobs and expectations of the people that they manage, from firsthand experience, to provide guidance, advice, encouragement, and empathy to their team.
My restaurant career began at the age of 15, when I got a bussing job at the Paradise Restaurant in Sequim, WA. Naturally, I got the job because my mom was the lead server there, and had been for nearly 20 years. At the time I did not see myself pursuing a career in restaurants, but somehow that is where I stayed, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Over the past 20 years, life has taken me on a very interesting and diverse journey through customer service, ranging anywhere from fast food to tour guide, bank teller, pizza delivery, barista, server, bartender, and finally I entered the management world at the age of 27, and haven’t looked back.
In the past year as General Manager at Heartwood, the diversity and longevity of my customer service background has been invaluable. It is so exciting to utilize the knowledge and experience that I have built over the years, and see it come into fruition. And in such a beautiful and unique establishment! Having the opportunity to work side by side with two of the most talented women in the business, while having my input and opinions count, has been absolutely life-changing.
Moving forward, I intend to help provide structure and support for the creative minds behind Heartwood’s operations, building on what we have created and elevating our service standards to match our beautiful food. After four years at the Metropolitan Grill, I’ve seen what unrivaled service looks like, and will strive to teach our staff what hospitality truly means-providing service, ambiance, and food that give our guests an experience they can’t get anywhere else.