News & Information
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| For Immediate Release |
Contact: Andy Deloney |
| April 27, 2006 |
517/377-3931 |
Michigan Restaurant Association Elects Julian Copsey of Novi to Board of Directors
The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) announced the election of a new member to its Board of Directors: Julian Copsey of Novi, Joint Venture Partner for Bonefish Grill in Michigan. Copsey oversees operations for the Bonefish Grill’s three Michigan restaurants.
“Julian Copsey has had a rich and diverse career in the restaurant industry, and we are pleased that he is joining the Board of Directors,” said MRA Executive Director Rob Gifford. “The MRA Board of Directors is committed to assisting, representing, promoting and educating the foodservice industry. Julian has the experience and expertise to help us in all of these areas.”
Copsey has been in the hospitality industry for more than 25 years. He got his start working in an East Lansing establishment as a jack of all trades, handling such duties as prep and grill cook, bus boy and dishwasher. As he gained more experience, he worked in ever greater capacities with more responsibilities, which earned him key management roles. By 1992 he was working for Outback Steakhouse as a manager before reaching the level of partner, a position for which he was recognized as Partner of the Year for Outback in both 1997 and 1999. Outback Steakhouse, Incorporated, the parent of Bonefish Grill, made Copsey Joint Venture Partner of Michigan in 2003.
“Like so many others who lead the restaurant industry today, Julian Copsey got his start at the bottom and worked his way up,” said Gifford. “His industry education consisted of working hard and learning all the facets of the business, which is what has made him so successful. The success he has earned will be a tremendous asset for the entire industry during his service on the Board of Directors.”
The Board of Directors is the governing body for the MRA, and, according to Gifford, will lead the association and the industry through a number of challenges in 2006. “The Michigan restaurant industry faces some serious challenges this year,” said Gifford. “With our uncertain economy, rising energy costs and a newly enacted minimum wage increase, it will not be an easy year for restaurateurs. That is why we are glad to have Julian Copsey serving the industry on the MRA Board.”
Julian and his wife Jo Ann live in Novi with two children, son Andrew, 10, and daughter Kayla, 14. Julian attended both Michigan State University and Arizona State University following his graduation from East Lansing High School in East Lansing, MI.
Founded in 1921, the Michigan Restaurant Association represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments. The foodservice industry plays an integral role in Michigan’s economy, employing more than 436,000 people and creating more than $11.3 billion in total annual sales. For more information, call (517) 482-5244.
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