Thomas Geis

Background

About Thomas Geis

I have a rich and diverse career, primarily rooted in the restaurant industry, where I truly learned the meaning of service. My journey has been shaped by unique experiences and guided by remarkable mentors like Dan Scoggin, the founder of TGI Fridays. His leadership and vision left an indelible mark on me, influencing how I approach my roles as a servant leader and manager today. I grew up in Chicago, though the city never felt like home. It was Miami and the South that resonated with my spirit. After college, I embarked on a journey through Europe, to broaden my horizons and deepen my appreciation for different cultures. Upon returning, I began working at an advertising agency in Chicago. With a solid background in printing and proofreading, I excelled as a Production Coordinator and Traffic Supervisor. However, the monotony of the work led me to seek new challenges, and I soon found myself in Florida, working at a restaurant in Miami. My adventurous spirit took me on a three-month canoe expedition with my brothers from Winnipeg, Manitoba, to near Hudson Bay. It was an experience that cemented my love for the outdoors and taught me the value of self-reliance and resilience. Returning to Florida, I embarked on a thrilling chapter of my life, working on a deep-sea charter boat in South Florida, the Keys, and the Bahamas. We fished in Billfish tournaments and hunted giant Blue Fin Tuna. Next, I joined TGI Fridays, where I quickly moved up the ranks to manage restaurants in California, Denver, and Texas. The high-volume, fresh-made menu of TGI Fridays posed one of the toughest challenges in the industry, but it was here that I honed my skills in active management and servant leadership. Eventually, I became the SE Regional Manager, overseeing some of the highest-grossing units in the country. I’ve worked with other national chains, including Darden/Olive Garden, and co-created a new restaurant concept for Sam Snead, the professional golfer. Opening a franchise pizza operation with a long-time friend from TGI Fridays, we grew the business to two units before I sold my shares and transitioned back into full-service dining, eventually developing a successful barbecue concept in Orlando. In 2018, I sought new challenges and joined CarMax, drawn by the potential for growth and the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment. tomgeis@gmail.com “It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.” — W.S. Churchill