It is extremely important for businesses of any size and industry to understand the diverse culture in which we live. Regardless of beliefs, race, or gender identity everyone deserves to live in a world of inclusivity.

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Andrew Cole is the President/CEO of the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce. Andrew joined the East Orlando Chamber team in 2013 as the Director of Events. During his tenure, he has played an integral role in establishing a sound foundation for the Chamber’s future. He has a passion for our Members and the East Orlando Business Community and is dedicated to leading the way for the Chamber’s growth and relevance in Central Florida as a connector for the region.

 

Andrew has a diverse work background which allows him to understand business. He was the first manager hired by TGI Friday’s with no prior restaurant experience. During his 11 years, he worked his way up to General Manager receiving numerous accolades including the esteemed Presidential Award for best profitable restaurant company wide and recognized for running the lowest employee turnover in the system, two Vice President Gold Stars, and numerous Regional Director Silver Stars. His creative thinking led to a culture change on how corporate would shut down underperforming restaurants. He also was a corporate executive trainer, regional food safety & alcohol service testing proctor and oversaw a test kitchen for new menu items. His passion for events allowed him to coordinate several regional bartender championships raising over $10,000 at each event for the Children’s Miracle Network, taking the winners to Las Vegas for the finals.

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Andrew was a Purchasing Agent for the second largest nursing home in South Florida where he reduced costs, saving the company over $25,000 in his first year. His continued success included streamlining inventory implementing and reducing labor and negotiating favorable terms without sacrificing but improving the quality of the products. He created a product review board and set up systems to capture patient charges.

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Before his purchasing career, Andrew was a groundskeeper at the historic Orange Bowl Stadium in Miami, FL, where he painted the field for numerous college and national championship football games, soccer games and various other events. He graduated from Maryville College with a BA in Sports Management where he created the Student Programing Board and wrote a thesis and manual for planning campus events.