Starting in his grandmother’s kitchen as just a young kid, working up into Executive Chef positions at multiple restaurants and opening a few of his own, Sam has a lifetime of experience under his belt. Deciding to settle down over 17 years ago and began his journey with CBD, he has built a loyal team to create and serve thousands of food & event-seeking clients.
Meet Our Chicago Catering Team
SAM GRAY
PRESIDENT
TAMI ZIMMERMAN-HENRY
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Being an Operations Manager means wearing many hats and that is certainly true for Tami. She brings to the table over 25 years of administrative experience coupled with her training as a chef from Kendall College. Tami is particularly adept at creating custom recipes and menus for clients looking for an exceptionally unique experience.
MATTHEW GRAY
CATERING SALES SPECIALIST
Matthew has been a part of the family-owned company since his teenage years and has excelled ever since. Now, he is the driving force behind Catered by Design’s drop-off division. His knowledge pours into creating flawless orders for both social and corporate entertaining.
JENNIFER LUCIA
CATERING SALES SPECIALIST
Coming from the upstanding field of Country Club dining and events, Jen has surpassed the expectations of her clients here at Catered by Design. Her participation in multiple areas within the company allows her to provide the invaluable knowledge her clients need to fulfill their dream event.
RACHEL JOZWIK
CATERING SALES SPECIALIST
Rachel joined the Catered by Design team after graduating from Iowa State University majoring in Event Management. She has a sharp eye for details, trends, and insight in and around the industry. Her creativity boosts throughout the entire planning process making each client’s vision turn into a perfect event.
ERIN LEY
CATERING SALES SPECIALIST
Erin worked her way through the industry while studying Hospitality Administration & Management at the University of Missouri – Columbia. She has a strong attention to detail and loves being part of creating those special experiences and events, leaving a lasting memory with her past clients.
THOMAS SCHABOW
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Thomas brings a set of talents that will help push Catered by Design further into the digital arena, helping us expand our customer base and clientele. With a strong background in client relationship management, team development, and digital marketing, he brings a solid foundation for the Director of Marketing position.
CARLOS OROZCO
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Raised in a family of bakers and bakery owners, Carlos educated his passion for executing delicious sweets at the French Pastry School. Having an enormous background in delectable desserts and off-premise catering, he has streamlined our kitchen and operations to run like a well-oiled rolling pin.
SHANNON GARRITY
CATERING SALES COORDINATOR
Finding her passion for the hospitality industry over 10 years ago, Shannon worked her way into some of the busiest restaurants in Chicago. Known for being meticulous and precise, her desire to help clients visions come to life makes her an asset at Catered by Design.
