Jean Farris ODaniel
Whitesburg
Summary
Seasoned manger with proven leadership skills and track record of driving organizational growth. Experienced in strategic planning, business development, operational management, and team leadership. Notable success in capitalizing on new business opportunities, increasing profitability, and managing business relationships. Instrumental in achieving corporate goals through hands-on involvement in all aspects of business operations.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1998
1998
years of post-secondary education
Work History
CEO
Southeast Vintners LLC
Seco
08.2003 - Current
- Created a small farm winery, vineyard, and restaurant consultant firm.
- Directly responsible for the inception of over 50 regional wineries, vineyards, and restaurants.
- Worked with new owners assisting them to realize the dream of small businesses ownership from inception to grand opening.
- Led strategic planning to drive long-term growth and innovation.
- Collaborated with team leaders to enhance operational efficiencies across departments.
- Fostered relationships with industry partners to expand market reach and opportunities.
Chef Manager
Sodexo USA
Whitesburg
04.2025 - 02.2026
- Managed kitchen operations to ensure efficient food preparation and service.
- Trained staff on food safety regulations and proper cooking techniques.
- Coordinated menu planning to align with seasonal rotation and dietary needs.
- Managed kitchen inventory and ordering for Hospital cafeteria and patient services.
- Knowledgeable of Healthtouch software, Food Management Systems Software, and Retail Ranger Software.
General Manager
Jean Farris Winery & Bistro
Lexington
08.2003 - 04.2025
- Directed daily operations of winery and bistro to ensure seamless service.
- Managed inventory and procurement of wine and food supplies for optimal quality.
- Oversaw staff training programs to enhance customer service skills and product knowledge.
Regional Sales Manager
Voya Financial
Nashville
06.1999 - 06.2011
- FINRA Registration: 24, 7, 65
- Life and Health Insurance Licenses.
- Managed over 900 million in assets.
- Top producer in the 403b, 401k, 457 market.
- Developed regional sales strategies to enhance market penetration.
- Managed client relationship from initial opportunity through closing to ongoing support.
- Trained, mentored, and supervised a sales team of 28 register representatives.
- Negotiated revenue sharing with mutual funds to secure plan pricing and customer
- Organized trade shows, conferences, and special events as part of a comprehensive marketing plan.
- Employed consultative selling approach to grow book by 25% annually.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Food Science
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 08.1992 - 06.1997
Fleming-Neon High School
Neon, KYSkills
- Real talk
- Communication
- Adaptability
- Relationship Building
- Leadership and People Skills
- Strategic Thinking
- Financial Understanding
- Decision-making
Timeline
Chef Manager
Sodexo USA
04.2025 - 02.2026
CEO
Southeast Vintners LLC
08.2003 - Current
General Manager
Jean Farris Winery & Bistro
08.2003 - 04.2025
Regional Sales Manager
Voya Financial
06.1999 - 06.2011
Bachelor of Science - Food Science
University of Kentucky
08.1992 - 06.1997
Fleming-Neon High School