40 Under 40: Ivan Ruiz, Executive Culinary Director of Operations, Westgate Resort

Ivan Ruiz, executive culinary director of operations with Westgate Resort, is a 2020 Vegas Inc 40 Under 40 honoree.

Ivan Ruiz has spent his life in the kitchen. He’s gone from cooking traditional Spanish and Italian food in his home growing up, to culinary school, to becoming the youngest executive culinary director of operations at Westgate Resort.

“My daily responsibilities consist of checking all 15 food outlets for quality and service, followed by meetings with each chef and going over the daily profit and loss reports. I develop and design menus, work on advertising ideas and restaurant concepts, and lead the team to stay on the latest trends in the food and beverage industry,” Ruiz said. “I also push my team to think about new and innovative concepts and service experiences to give people the Vegas experience they come for.”

Managing 17 chefs and more than 300 employees can present challenges, but Ruiz is a hands-on leader who works closely with his staff to ensure that Westgate’s culinary operations deliver the highest quality products.

“I surround myself with chefs that are as passionate as myself, so challenges are just small speed bumps on the road to success,” Ruiz said.

Outside of the kitchen, Ruiz is involved with multiple nonprofits including Victoria’s Voice, a foundation striving to help end the opioid epidemic. The gala held at Westgate raised $1.4 million for the foundation in 2019. Ruiz and his team also volunteer for Three Square food bank, hosting special dinners where all proceeds go toward the organization.

Since joining the Westgate Las Vegas team, Ruiz has led the creation of new menus at multiple property restaurants and has amassed a collection of awards and accolades. Looking forward, Ruiz is excited to continue bringing his energy and innovation to the property. “I’d like to take Westgate Las Vegas to the next level all around. We’re Old Vegas and have history no other property has,” Ruiz said.

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