Meet Our Executive Team

  • Kurt Janowsky

    FOUNDER

  • Jeff Shepard

    PRESIDENT

  • Melissa Barenie

    VICE PRESIDENT, CATERING SALES

  • James Baxter

    EXECUTIVE CHEF

  • Lauren Miller

    DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING

  • Matt Soutra

    VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

  • Christine DellaNeva Flint

    DIRECTOR OF CATERING & SALES

  • Sean Miller

    GENERAL MANAGER

At Navarre Hospitality Group, hospitality is at the heart of everything we do. Since opening our doors, we’ve grown into a family of 15 restaurants, bars, and venues across St. Joseph and Elkhart counties. Behind every meal served, event hosted, and guest welcomed is a passionate team of leaders who believe in creating memorable experiences through food, service, and community.

Our Leadership

  • Kurt Janowsky – Founder
    Kurt has spent his career building restaurants, venues, and catering experiences that bring people together. His vision for Navarre Hospitality Group has always been simple: to share great food and warm hospitality with the community he loves.

  • Jeff Shepard – President
    Jeff leads our catering and events division with a focus on making every wedding, celebration, and gathering unforgettable. His commitment to seamless service sets the tone for our entire team.

  • Melissa Barenie – Vice President, Catering Sales
    Melissa brings energy and care to every client relationship, ensuring that each event feels personal and thoughtfully planned from start to finish.

  • Lauren Miller – Director of Accounting
    With a steady hand and an eye for detail, Lauren keeps our financial foundation strong, allowing our team to focus on what we do best—taking care of our guests.

  • James Baxter – Executive Chef
    Chef James creates menus that bring people together, blending creativity with fresh ingredients to deliver food that feels both elevated and approachable.

  • Matt Soutra – Director of Operations,
    Matt works closely with our restaurant teams to make sure every guest walks away with the same warm, welcoming experience that defines Navarre Hospitality Group.

  • Christine DellaNeva Flint – Director of Catering & Sales
    Christine combines organization and heart, guiding clients through the planning process and ensuring every detail shines on event day.

  • Sean Miller – General Manager
    Sean oversees our venues with a passion for making each space feel inviting, flexible, and ready to bring special occasions to life.