Our Approach
At GSD, we take a collaborative approach to hospitality, working closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and craft sustainable solutions for hotel and food & beverage operations—whether launching a new concept or optimizing an existing one.
From pre-opening task force support to daily operations, we do more than strategize—we roll up our sleeves and get it done. Every touchpoint of the guest experience is thoughtfully designed, turning first impressions into lasting memories.
Founder and Principal
Ellie Burkey’s hospitality journey began in local, family-run restaurants, sparking a passion for the food and beverage industry. Her career has since spanned globally, with roles at The Standard Hotels in New York, Chiltern Firehouse in London, and Bar Pompette in Toronto.
Immersed in diverse hospitality environments—from bustling restaurants and luxury hotels to international concierge services—Ellie honed her expertise in concept design, menu innovation, and service standardization. As Director of Culinary Experiences for a global brand, she refined her ability to craft memorable dining experiences.
In 2023, she founded GSD Hospitality Solutions, combining strategic vision with hands-on execution to help businesses elevate their operations. With a dynamic professional network and a deep understanding of the industry, Ellie is dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable hospitality solutions that enhance the guest experience.
2023 - PRESENT
GSD Hospitality Solutions
Founder and Principal
Founded in 2023, GSD Hospitality Solutions is a consultancy specializing in hotel and food & beverage operations. We partner with hospitality groups and individual ventures to provide creative and operational guidance, ensuring seamless integration and optimizing systems across all facets of operations. Whether launching new concepts or refining established ones, we deliver tailored solutions—ranging from pre-opening support and SOP development to social media design and branding. With a hands-on approach, we drive stakeholder buy-in, elevate service standards, and ensure synergy across all business channels, creating sustainable, impactful results.
Current clients include Hotel el Roblar, Bar Pompette, and Tamarack Farms.
2015 - 2022
Ten Lifestyle Management
Director of Restaurants, Americas & Global Director, Communications
Ellie began her tenure at Ten Lifestyle as Senior Operations Manager for the U.S., leading initiatives to enhance daily profitability and operational efficiency. She was then promoted to Director of Culinary Experiences, where she launched and managed the inaugural restaurants program for the Americas region.
2015
Chiltern Firehouse
Consulting Project Manager
Ellie played a key role in the pre-opening of Chiltern Firehouse, leading OS&E task force efforts, integrating critical back-of-house systems. She also helped develop guest room collateral, and provided operational support to the Managing Director on various strategic initiatives.
2012 - 2015
The Standard Hotel, East Village
Operational Lead & Marketing Manager
As Operations Lead, Ellie supported the hotel's rebranding and reopening, serving as both community liaison and project manager while also contributing to the construction and launch of the restaurants. Later, as Marketing Manager, she oversaw the brand’s social media presence, developed on-property initiatives to drive guest engagement, and hosted events to elevate the hotel's profile.
1995 - 2015
Various F&B Outlets, California & New York
Server, Bartender, Trainer, Manager
Ellie discovered her passion for hospitality while working in Bay Area restaurants. After moving to New York City in 2001, she embarked on a two-decade journey across diverse roles in hotel and food & beverage operations, honing her expertise in both creative and operational leadership.