Molly Badersnider, General Manager at Valentina’s, joined Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR) in 2008 when she discovered Cap City Diner and simultaneously fell in love with the culture of CMR. From server, to bartender, to holding an array of management positions, Badersnider did it all in her years at Cap City. Now, she takes her talents to Valentina’s where she continues to exercise her valuable years of experience.
When asked what her favorite thing about working for CMR is, Badersnider answered, “The support I receive from everyone around me. Everyone I’ve worked with, from those in the restaurant to our Home Office team, genuinely cares about your growth and success.” She then went on to say how CMR feels like a family that roots for you through every step of your journey.
Badersnider was awarded Dining Room Manager of the Year in 2022. She offers advice to those who are interested in pursuing a career in hospitality to, “be yourself, lead with empathy, work hard and have fun!”
A native of Pickerington, Badersnider now resides in Dublin with her husband, Jay, dachshund, Peanut, three fish and a shrimp named Roy. Outside of work, her interests include hiking, traveling, disc golf and indoor plants. She looks most forward to continuing to build the amazing culture that exists inside Valentina’s, and she hopes to inspire other associates to pursue a long-term career with CMR.
Todd Kessler, Executive Chef of Valentina’s, found his true passion of working in restaurants during high school and while studying architecture at The Ohio State University. In 2012, he began his Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR) career at Cap City Fine Diner & Bar in Grandview as a sous chef.
“Never stop learning or being a sponge,” Kessler says when asked for advice to those interested in pursuing a career in hospitality. There is always something to be learned by everyone and in every situation.” Kessler also says his greatest lesson in his professional career is to “stay humble. There will always be challenges, but with the proper approach, you can accomplish anything.”
When asked what he hopes to achieve in his new role, Kessler spoke on the achievements he has already been working on. “Opening a new concept and being a part of the continued growth of CMR is incredibly rewarding,” Kessler says. “I am forever grateful for the opportunities CMR has given me.” Another achievement Kessler has earned is Executive Chef of the Year in 2019 for CMR’s Specialty Concepts.
A native of Sandusky, Ohio, Kessler now resides in Delaware, Ohio with his two daughters, Harper and Emma. His favorite CMR dish comes from Mitchell’s Ocean Club, the Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli, and he also loves everything on the menu at Valentina’s. Outside of work, Kessler enjoys being outside, spending time with his family, tending to his vegetable garden, watching baseball and listening to music.