Titan Brands Hospitality Group announced today the appointments of Michelle Bautista as Director of Restaurants and Steve Ruck as Director of Operations, strengthening the company’s leadership team with two seasoned hospitality professionals known for their people-first approach, operational expertise, and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences across the organization.
A seasoned hospitality leader, Bautista brings a career shaped by resilience, creativity, and a deep passion for service. Born in Los Angeles and raised in West Covina, Calif., she learned early that adaptability and perseverance are essential to success. After overcoming a life-changing car accident in 1992, she redirected her ambitions and found her calling in hospitality, demonstrating that unexpected detours can lead to meaningful growth and leadership.
Baustista relocated to Las Vegas in 1996 and quickly immersed herself in the city’s hospitality scene. She began at Drink Nightclub as a coat check attendant and advanced through roles including hostess, food server, cocktail server, and bartender within six years. This rapid progression reinforced her belief that hospitality is both an art and a performance, one that succeeds when delivered with heart, intention, and respect for the people behind the scenes.
Over the years, she has built extensive experience across restaurant and nightlife operations, including serving as a VIP host at Ghostbar and Rain Nightclub. In her role as Director of Restaurants for Titan Brands Hospitality Group, she will focus on developing high-performing teams, elevating guest journeys, and shaping a culture that blends heart and hustle. Driven by her love for people and food, she is known for creating environments where teams feel supported and guests feel genuinely welcomed.
As Director of Operations for Titan Brands Hospitality Group, Ruck has extensive experience as well. He was born in Texas and raised in New Jersey. He began his hospitality journey in North Florida as a busser and steadily advanced through every front- and back-of-house role, building a comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations from the ground up.
After relocating to Las Vegas in 2010, Ruck spent seven years as a kitchen manager before stepping into a General Manager role. Following the COVID-19 closures, he joined Titan Brands Hospitality Group, where his steady leadership and operational discipline led to successful promotions from General Manager to Senior General Manager, District Manager, and ultimately Director of Operations.
In his current role, Ruck oversees multi-unit performance, operational strategy, and leadership development across the organization.
“Together, the duo will collaborate closely to align restaurant culture with operational execution, ensuring consistent guest experiences, strong team development, and long-term growth for Titan Brands Hospitality Group,” said Titan Brands Hospitality Group CEO Marko Greisen. “We are thrilled for what’s to come with our Southern Nevada restaurants.”
