PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Graphic designer and hospitality professional specializing in menu design, layout, and brand presentation for high-volume restaurant concepts. Experienced in creating visually compelling, text-heavy menus that balance aesthetics, readability, and sales performance. Skilled in Adobe design tools and remote collaboration, with a strong understanding of how design impacts customer experience and revenue.
CORE PROFICIENCIES
Menu Design & Layout (Text-Heavy Formats)
Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Firefly
Typography & Visual Hierarchy
Brand Identity & Visual Consistency
Print & Digital Menu Production
Restaurant & Hospitality Design Strategy
Remote Collaboration & Communication
Multi-Project Management & Deadlin
DESIGN EXPERIENCE
2009 – 2024 Tennessee
Director of Operations / Executive Chef / Graphic Designer
JDD Enterprises Inc. – Multi-Concept, Multi-City Restaurant Operations
Designed and produced menus across multiple restaurant concepts, focusing on readability, flow, and visual appeal
Created text-heavy layouts balancing detailed descriptions, pricing, and formatting for optimal guest experience
Developed cohesive brand identities, including logos, typography, and visual systems across locations
Utilized Adobe InDesign and Photoshop to create print-ready and digital menu designs
Iterated menu designs based on sales performance, customer behavior, and seasonal updates
Collaborated with kitchen, bar, and management teams to ensure accuracy, clarity, and usability
Managed multiple concurrent design updates and concept launches while meeting tight deadlines
Designed supporting materials including event menus, promotional graphics, and in-house marketing assets
Built and maintained company website and digital presence, ensuring visual consistency across platforms
Elise F. Clair
New Orleans, Louisiana | Johnson City, Tennessee | Open to Remote
elise.clair@gmail.com | (423) 557-5026
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elise-clair-690a9b334
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Extensive understanding of restaurant operations and customer decision-making, informing effective menu design
Experience creating high-volume, frequently updated menus requiring accuracy and adaptability
Strong communication skills developed through cross-functional collaboration and remote coordination
EARLY CAREER EXPERIENCE
Interior Design Intern, Ken Ross Architects | Johnson City, TN | 2007–2009
Developed project bids and AutoCAD drafting documentation
Produced 3D renderings and implemented wayfinding systems
Intern Interior Designer 2008
Inspire Interior Design | Johnson City, TN | 2008
Supervised site furniture install
Kitchen & Bath Designer Intern
Ferguson Kitchen & Bath | Johnson City, TN | 2008
Designed layout plans and prepared material bids
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Design & Systems: Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, Canva
POS: Toast, Aloha
Reporting & Analytics: Toast reporting suite, Google Sheets
Collaboration: Google Workspace
Website & Digital Media Management
Payroll & HR systems within POS platforms
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science, Interior Design
East Tennessee State University
Minor: Digital Media
