
Nicole Kinzel
Chief Operating Officer, Manthey Hospitality (Yacht Starship, Pirate Water Taxi, Craft Tampa, Lost Pearl Pirate Ship and Tampa Riverwalk Rentals)
With 28 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, Nicole Kinzel has built a career defined by leadership, operational excellence, and a passion for hospitality. She began her journey at just 15 years old with Dairy Queen, quickly rising through the ranks. At 18, she was managing three locations, and by 20, she had advanced to the Multi-Unit District Manager, overseeing six Dairy Queens.
In 2012, Nicole relocated to the Tampa Bay area, where she expanded her expertise by working with the Tampa Convention Center as the Director of Food and Beverage. For the past six years, she has been an integral part of Manthey Hospitality, contributing her extensive industry knowledge and leadership skills to drive success as their Chief Operating Officer. Nicole oversees all operations for the five Manthey Hospitality brands, along with sitting on the Executive Board.
Beyond her professional career, Nicole is actively involved in shaping the future of the hospitality industry and the local community. She currently serves on The Board of Directors for the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and the Redevelopment Board for the Clearwater Municipal Marina. She is also a proud graduate of the Leadership Tampa Class of 2022 with the Tampa Bay Chamber.
Nicole resides in Manatee County with her 8-year-old son, balancing her dedication to the industry with her role as a mother.