Bouchon Bakery Blog Transitions: A fond farewell to Antonio & a warm welcome to Sam

Evolution has been top of mind to me this year. In a year of change and new beginnings across our restaurant group, I have the bittersweet task of announcing the departure of Antonio Begonia from the General Manager position of Per Se. After eleven years of dedicated service, Antonio plans to spend more time with his family, though we can hope and imagine he will re-enter the hospitality arena again in the future. As you all know, Antonio has been an ardent advocate of our core values at Per Se for more than a decade. Hard working, focused, sincere, he internalized the understanding that guests' needs come first. Antonio is a true gentleman; he has a serious countenance and yet the warmest smile. He has always been a team player and has looked to his colleagues for support when he needs it, exemplifying what it means to be a part of that team. Antonio is a natural teacher, patient and willing to listen. He is a consummate professional, balancing old-school elegance with an ability to adapt. Antonio, who has guided Per Se in the toughest of times, is the strongest. No where is this more evident than in his mentorship of his team. With Antonio's departure, I are proud to announce that Sam Calderbank will take the position of the General Manager. Sam has been working under Antonio's guidance in preparation for this transition, which has been in the works since the first of the year, and their relationship is a true testament to mentoring through example. It should make us all proud that this change, while bittersweet, will be smooth. I look to you all to provide Sam the support he needs as he makes the transition into new responsibilities. And I ask you to join me in thanking Antonio Begonia for the legacy he leaves at Per Se and across our restaurant group-a lasting impact that positively affects our daily work and our guests.I remain in your service,Tags: per seTransitions: A fond farewell to Antonio & a warm welcome to Sam