Melissa Koujakian,
Director of West Coast Operations
Based in Los Angeles, Melissa graduated from NYU and quickly found her way into the restaurant business taking on the role of AGM at Petrossian overseeing their cafe and retail operations. Eight of her ten years in Los Angeles was spent with the Sprout Restaurant Group where her passion for hospitality blossomed as she led multiple operations culminating in taking on the the Director of Operations role for James Beard Award Winning Operators Walter and Margarita Manzke. During her tenure there she oversaw and opened multiple venues from counter service concepts, to bakery/cafes, to Michelin starred restaurants.
In addition to restaurant operations Melissa also has a background in luxury catering and event production from her time with Annie Campbell Catering and Events where she most recently served as their first Director of Operations more than doubling their sales and profitability.
In her role with Apres Cru, Melissa is actively involved in the L’Esperance operations, implementing Apres Cru’s systems, building a great team and fortifying the culture, in our existing operations. As we look to expand our footprint in Los Angles and beyond, Melissa will play a critical role in leading that while leveraging our resources to support our partners.