Meet the Speakers #2 - David Solnet

Dr David Solnet is the Director of Industry and Government Engagement and a lecturer in Customer Service Management at the University of Queensland’s School of Tourism.

Prior to commencing his academic career in 2002, David enjoyed a successful 18-year career in the restaurant and club industries where he held senior management roles in both the United States and Australia – most recently as general manager at Brett’s Wharf in Brisbane. He completed his PhD in service management and organizational psychology – where he researched the links between employee attitudes and customer satisfaction in the hotel industry.

David has authored over 20 academic, peer reviewed papers, many in the worlds top hospitality industry journals, and was recently a short listed finalist for International Best Paper in the marketing journal, Managing Service Quality. He is currently working on a university level hospitality management textbook with co-authors from the UK.

David also engages industry in an advisory capacity, as co-director of the consulting firm ‘Shift Directions’, providing a range of programs and services in the areas of financial analysis, customer service quality, management and supervisory leadership training and performance-based remuneration programs.

Finally, David had the pleasure of serving as the Queensland State Chair of Judges in 2006 and 2007 for the National Restaurant and Catering Association’s Awards for Excellence Program.