American Express Launches Leadership Program for Restaurant Industry

American Express and Resy have announced the creation of a new national leadership academy aimed at equipping restaurant owners and managers with improved team management and profitability skills. The program intends to help operators navigate the complexities of the modern industry.

The initiative, developed in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, will involve 30 restaurant leaders from across the country participating in a four-month development program beginning this fall.

The launch comes amid ongoing challenges for the restaurant sector, including elevated food costs, labor shortages in various markets, and increased consumer selectivity regarding dining expenditures. Success for many independent establishments relies as much on effective people and financial management as on culinary offerings.

While culinary education typically focuses on cooking techniques, opportunities for restaurant owners to develop essential business management skills remain limited. This academy seeks to address that gap in professional development.