leadership

CO-FOUNDER & CEO

Francesco co-founded Grove Bay Hospitality Group in 2010, with the goal of becoming an industry leader in innovative and profitable restaurant concepts. As Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Francesco has led the group to successfully launch eight (8) street-side celebrity chef driven restaurants across Miami and successfully been awarded contracts for over 24 restaurants in four international airports across the country. Balli was also instrumental in securing an 80-year lease with the City of Miami for three restaurants, a 300-boat marina, and 60,000 sq. ft. of retail space on a 7-acre waterfront property in Coconut Grove, previously known as the Charthouse and Scotty's Landing property; where the group's Bayshore Club restaurant and private event space, The Hangar are located. Francesco was recognized by Ernst & Young, as a finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year 2018 Florida Awards program, the awards program recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellent and extraordinary success in areas such as financial performance, innovation and commitment to their businesses and communities.  In 2020, Francescowas recognized as one of the most influential restaurant CEO's in the country by Nation's Restaurant News. A true reflection of a career both diverse and successful at every milestone. In 2024, Francesco was honored by the South Florida Business Journal with the Ultimate CEO Award and Power Leaders in Hospitality

CO-FOUNDER & CEO

Ignacio has been recognized in the community by the South Florida Business Journal Magazine as one of it's "Top Movers and Shakers" and in 2018, he was recognized by Ernst & Young as an Entrepreneur of the Year Florida Award finalist.  This award recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellent and extraordinary success in areas such as financial performance, innovation and commitment to their business and communities.  In 2020 and again in 2022, Ignacio was recognized as one of the most influential CEO's in the country by Nation's Restaurant news.  In 2024, Ignacio was honored by the South Florida Business Journal with the Ultimate CEO Award and Power Leaders in Hospitality.  

Ignacio holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Florida, a Master of Accounting from Florida International University, and a Certificate of Foodservice Management from Cornell University.  He also serves as a Board Member of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association as well as the Federal Reserve Bank – Miami Branch.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Eddie joined Grove Bay Hospitality Group as Chief Operating Officer in 2016. A veteran of the hospitality industry, he began his career in his hometown of Rincon, Puerto Rico at the renowned boutique hotel the Horned Dorset Primavera. Throughout his eleven year tenure, he apprenticed in all facets of upscale European hotel and restaurant operations.

Upon completing his University studies, he moved to New York City to serve as Director of Sales and Marketing for the resort and later served as a Sales Consultant to Relais & Chateau North America.

Eddie attended the University of Puerto Rico where he majored in Accounting & Marketing. He is also a First Level Cicerone, an avid craft beer aficionado, and has served as a Board Member for the Miami Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.

VP CULINARY OPERATIONS 

Kenny Gilbert is a renowned chef and entrepreneur, currently serving as the VP of Culinary Operations at Grove Bay Hospitality Group. Chef Kenny is best known for his appearance on "Top Chef" Season 7, where he displayed a big personality and instantly became one of the most likable cheftestants to date.

An award-winning chef and restaurateur, Gilbert's career spans over two decades, providing him with opportunities to travel around the world and master authentic techniques and flavors of global cuisines.

Chef Kenny has been featured on numerous cooking shows, competitions, and segments on national television. His accolades include winning Beat Bobby Flay, Midnight Feast, and Cutthroat Kitchen, as well as serving as a judge on Chopped Junior. He has also appeared on CBS Saturday Morning, The Today Show, and HGTV.

Having cooked at top restaurants worldwide and catered for prominent figures such as Oprah Winfrey and Samuel L. Jackson, Chef Kenny brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his culinary endeavors.

Additionally, Chef Kenny owns HOUSE OF BIRDS DROP BISCUITS, located at Regatta Grove in Coconut Grove.

He published his first cookbook, "Southern Cooking, Global Flavors."

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Rachel Thering is the Director of Marketing at Grove Bay Hospitality Group, a leading entity in Miami's hospitality sector. With over a decade of experience in marketing and brand management, Rachel has a proven track record of driving success for innovative restaurant concepts. Before joining Grove Bay, Rachel served as Director of Operations at The Pao Creative, a prominent digital marketing agency, where she honed her skills in strategic marketing initiatives. She also held the position of Director of Sales and Marketing at Kiki on the River, where she managed marketing efforts for multiple restaurant brands. Rachel holds a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management from Florida International University and an Associate's degree in Tourism and Travel Services Marketing Operations from Monroe Community College. Her exceptional track record and strategic insights make her a key driver of Grove Bay Hospitality Group's continued success and innovation.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Loren Abraham is the Director of Operations at Grove Bay Hospitality Group in Miami, Florida, a position he has held since July 2021. With a Bachelor's degree in Finance from Florida State University, Loren leverages his financial acumen and extensive industry knowledge to drive operational excellence. His expertise includes restaurant management, hospitality, menu development, and food service. Highly endorsed for his skills in the restaurant and food and beverage industries, Loren is known for his exceptional customer service and innovative hospitality management. Under his leadership, Grove Bay Hospitality Group continues to thrive and expand its culinary footprint.

DIRECTOR OF TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Kevin Cooper is the Director of Training & Development at Grove Bay Hospitality Group, where he specializes in designing and implementing impactful learning and development programs aimed at driving organizational growth and enhancing employee engagement. With a career spanning leadership roles at BurgerFi, Kevin has a proven track record of overhauling training initiatives, opening over 50 restaurants, and developing hundreds of managers and trainers. His tenure includes roles such as Leadership Specialist, where he spearheaded a strengths-based learning initiative at Leadership Rhode Island, recognized with a National Innovation Award. Kevin holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Brown University and an MBA from Providence College, combining academic rigor with practical insights to shape high-performing teams and drive strategic outcomes in hospitality leadership. Passionate about fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Kevin remains dedicated to leveraging his expertise to empower individuals and organizations alike.

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Angelica Solis is an accomplished Director of Human Resources at Grove Bay Hospitality Group, bringing over 8 years of expertise in the restaurant industry. She holds a Master of Science in Human Resources Management from Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Administration from Florida International University. Angelica is known for her leadership in enhancing company culture and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the organization. Her career highlights include managing HR operations, staffing, training, and organizational development at Grove Bay Hospitality Group, where she has been instrumental in driving positive change and growth. Angelica is also a Certified Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP), demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence in HR management.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Federico De la Fuente is currently the Director of Operations at Grove Bay Group, a position he has held for the past 5 years. In this role, he oversees and coordinates operations across multiple locations, ensuring seamless execution of strategic initiatives and maintaining operational efficiency. Federico brings over 4 years of experience as the General Manager at Pisco y Nazca, where he managed a high-volume establishment with annual sales exceeding $4 million, driven by robust private dining events. He has a proven track record of effective team management, with oversight of 70+ employees encompassing both Back of House (BOH) and Front of House (FOH) operations. Federico is recognized for his leadership in maintaining exceptional customer ratings on platforms like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google. His career includes pivotal roles such as Bar Manager & Operating Manager at Crave Restaurant & Lounge and Corporate Trainer/Head Server at Chart House Restaurant. Federico holds an Associate's degree in Political Science from Florida International University, complementing his strong background in hospitality management and P&L oversight.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Steve Durkin is the Director of Operations at Bayshore Club, where he brings a wealth of experience and leadership in hospitality management. With a career marked by roles at esteemed establishments such as matchbox, Joseph's Classic Market, Chuy's Restaurants, and The Cheesecake Factory, Steve has honed his expertise in optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing guest satisfaction. His journey in hospitality began with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Florida International University, complemented by studies in Hotel, Motel, and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. Steve's proactive approach includes identifying and implementing tools to elevate profitability, efficiency, and overall guest experience. At Bayshore Club, he continues to drive excellence in operations, ensuring a seamless and exceptional dining environment for patrons. Steve's dedication to fostering a positive workplace culture and delivering outstanding service underscores his commitment to hospitality excellence.

DIRECTOR OF SALES & EVENTS

Stefanie Grille Giz is a seasoned hospitality professional currently serving as the Director of Sales & Events at Grove Bay Hospitality Group. With over 17 years of experience in the industry, Stefanie excels in sales, events, catering, marketing, and operations management. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Event Management from the University of Central Florida. Stefanie has played pivotal roles in managing events and sales for renowned establishments such as NASCAR Sports Grill at Universal City Walk, Las Brisas in Laguna Beach, Romano's Macaroni Grill eastern region, and Rusty Pelican Miami before joining Grove Bay Hospitality Group. Her career highlights include organizing large-scale events like the Messi Experience, Axios BFD, Pinta Miami, and Montreux Jazz Festival Miami at The Hangar and spearheading sales efforts across multiple brands within the group. Stefanie's dedication to excellence and her expertise in creating memorable guest experiences continue to drive her success in the hospitality sector.

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

Michael Garcell is the Director of Finance at Grove Bay Hospitality Group, a role he has held since February 2023. Joining the company in 2020, he has significantly contributed to its financial stability and growth. A Miami native, he earned a bachelor's degree in Finance from the University of Miami. Experience in private country clubs and condominiums in South Florida has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of food and beverage operations within the hospitality industry. As Director of Finance, he oversees the financial well-being of Grove Bay's street-side restaurants and concessions, coordinating with on-site management to ensure financial accuracy and asset safeguarding.