My name is David Bennett, and I began my hospitality career in the summer 2011 working at a local golf course in my hometown Kingston, ON. Eager to learn everything the industry had to offer I could often be found assisting many departments. From cleaning golf carts, washing dishes and tending the bar I was always willing to lend a hand. In the summer of 2015, I joined the Service Inspired Restaurants (SIR Corp.) team at Jack Astor's Bar & Grill in downtown Kingston, ON as a server.

After completing an advanced diploma in business administration and professional golf management I moved back to Toronto, ON in September 2015 to purse my education in marketing. However, my love for the hospitality industry never left. While studying full-time, I worked my way up the ladder at one of Toronto’s busiest restaurants, Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill at Dundas Square (Toronto, ON). Quickly moving from server to bartender, shift leader to supervisor, manager to bar manager, my experience in the industry has accelerated tremendously.

In June 2020 (during the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic), I was promoted to General Manager of the Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill in North York, ON. Kingston has always been "home" and when the opportunity presented itself in 2021, my loving wife, our newborn son, and mini goldendoodle packed up our things and moved our family down the 401. Today, I hold the title of General Manager at Jack's Astor's Bar & Grill where I lead a successful team of over 100 industry professionals back in the heart of my hometown - a full circle moment which I am extremely grateful for.

I've always been eager to continue to learn and grow in my career. I recently completed SIR Corp.’s Accelerated Leadership Program (ALP) as well as the strategic thinking business course. Both opportunities are designed for high performing employees to fast track their careers and further their leadership skills. Last month, I was selected as one of Kostuch Media Ltd.'s Top-30-Under-30 award recipients, an annual awards program that recognizes and salutes the food service and hospitality industry’s top young performers and leaders.

I am incredibly passionate about outdoor activities and experiences for locals and tourists to get out and explore our amazing city. I hope to bring more family-focused initiatives to the downtown core for members of the community to create new memories and traditions. I am also committed to supporting projects and opportunities that continue to attract tourism to the city.

How do you feel about the Tannery project? 
⭐ Star: Against | ⭐⭐⭐ Star: Indifferent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star: Advocate

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How do you feel about a Conference Centre/North Blocks development?
⭐ Star: Against | ⭐⭐⭐ Star: Indifferent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star: Advocate

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How do you feel about investment in community spaces?
⭐ Star: Against | ⭐⭐⭐ Star: Indifferent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star: Advocate

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How do you feel about walkability living?
⭐ Star: Against | ⭐⭐⭐ Star: Indifferent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star: Advocate

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