Amber Willis promoted to manage Bluecoast Seafood Grill in Rehoboth
Scott Kammerer, president of SoDel Concepts, announced the promotion of Amber Willis to general manager of Bluecoast Seafood Grill + Raw Bar on Route 1 in Rehoboth Beach. She was previously the assistant manager.
The restaurant is one of 12 SoDel Concepts restaurants in coastal Sussex County. Matt’s Fish Camp will soon open in Fenwick Island, and the hospitality company just broke ground on Ocean View Brewing Company in Ocean View, which will bring the count to 14 restaurants.
Willis succeeds Jack Temple, who recently became a director of operations with the fast-growing company.
“The Rehoboth Bluecoast is one of our busiest businesses, and it’s a monster in the summer,” Kammerer said. “Managing it requires experience, professionalism and people skills. Amber has an abundance of all three traits.”
Since she’s familiar with Bluecoast, the transition has been seamless, he said.
Raised in Pittsburgh, Willis received a bachelor’s degree in geography and environmental studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Meanwhile, she’d been working in the hospitality industry since age 15. Her first job was at a quick-service restaurant in a mall.
After moving to Rehoboth Beach in 2001, she worked in area restaurants. In 2014, she joined SoDel Concepts and became a bar manager before moving to Bluecoast.
“I have worked at many restaurants throughout my career, and I love how much SoDel Concepts appreciates their employees,” Willis said. “As a board member for the YMCA, I also respect SoDel’s commitment to the local community.” Willis also has been involved in the art docent program at Rehoboth Beach Elementary School.
She credits her success to her parents, who stressed the importance of responsibility and a strong work ethic.
“I also learn every day from co-workers who come from all walks of life,” she said. “I love the diversity that characterizes the restaurant business.”
Willis lives in Rehoboth Beach with her three daughters and their dog Chip.
All SoDel Concepts restaurants are open for dining and carryout. To learn more, go to sodelconcepts.com.