Our TeaM

Kay’s been hustling since 17 - starting in the corporate world and spending the next two decades stacking up skills like cocktail garnishes: leadership, training, project management, and a knack for fixing what’s broken. She even spent five years as a fitness trainer, helping folks work their way to better health. But her heart? It belongs to hospitality.

With over a decade in the industry - with seven of those years behind the bar at some of Dayton’s best-loved spots - Kay found her passion in creating unforgettable guest experiences and building real connections. Her time with Sculpture Hospitality (Bevinco) sharpened her behind-the-scenes game, helping bars and restaurants untangle inventory and costing challenges (yes, inventory can be sexy). As General Manager of the Red Carpet Tavern, she brought a branded breakfast concept to life and it became a Dayton staple.

Now at Tender Mercy, Kay brings that same energy, expertise, and heart. Whether she’s motivating her team, enhancing the guest experience, or recognizing just the right moment for a thoughtful gesture, Kay leads with a blend of warmth and unstoppable hustle. Off the clock, you’ll catch her running outdoor trails, dancing like nobody’s watching, or hanging with her family and fur babies - always with a Sugar Free Red Bull in hand.

You know, you love him - Tyler is a Tender Mercy OG. Starting out as a bartender and moving quickly into bar manager, he has been a crucial part of TM since opening. He originally developed his hospitality ethos at local country clubs and Dayton staples like the Pine Club as a bartender and bar manager. After developing his palate as a wine rep and passing his Certified Specialist of Wine, he joined the Tender Mercy family. In the summer of 2023, he accepted the position as Beverage Director for both Tender Mercy and Sueño.

When he’s not working, he loves spending time with his kiddos, watching anime, wearing hats backwards, and won’t ever say no to a well-crafted Negroni.

Born and raised in Dayton, Jason developed his philosophy of hospitality in Chicago. (And, yes, a fondness for Malört.)

Working in specialty coffee and then at Ward Eight cocktail bar, he learned that there’s alchemy behind the application of quality, craft, appreciation, and kindness. He’s been with Tender Mercy since day one, and is excited about the new directions and opportunities for community and cocktails in Dayton.

During daylight hours, he enjoys reading 19th-century literature, growing his own herbs and vegetables, and spending time with his amazing wife and wonderful daughter.

Whether she’s mixing up magic behind the bar or behind the camera, Julia brings a creative spark to everything at TM.

Originally from Arizona, Julia’s love for restaurants began in a small pizzeria in Flagstaff, where the intimacy of service and the fast-paced rhythm of the kitchen ignited her passion for hospitality. She went on to hold leadership roles at standout establishments including Hops on Birch, Diablo Burger, Penca Restaurante, and Miraval Resort & Spa. In 2023, she took over as General Manager at Tender Mercy, later stepping into her role as Creative Director in 2024.

Alongside her work in hospitality, Julia has built worked as a graphic designer and photographer, collaborating with clients across the hospitality, higher education, and adventure travel industries. Her creative work is fueled by the same values that guide her leadership - empathy, curiosity, and a commitment to creating genuine connection.

Julia feels most at home in bars and restaurants because of the camaraderie - being behind the bar and in the weeds with others creates a truly indescribable bond. She leads with integrity, humor, and a healthy dose of sass.

When she’s not on the floor or behind the lens, Julia is probably rewatching a Nora Ephron classic or drinking too much Red Bull.

Lauren is a wine nerd with an irreverent and un-intimidating approach to learning about, drinking, and selling booze.

After returning to the U.S. from her service in the United States Peace Corps, she honed her skills in the Los Angeles wine industry, working at Nancy Silverton’s Chi Spacca under the wine direction of Joe Bastianich. She has since worked with and managed award-winning wine programs in Las Vegas, San Francisco, and several cities in her home state of Ohio. Most recently, she got her hands dirty making wine in Napa for the 2020 harvest.

She speaks decent Swahili, bad Spanish, and perfect midwest English. Ope.

Isaiah is a dedicated hospitality professional with experience in everything from small mom & pop shops, to large corporate chains, and everywhere in between. After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in hospitality management, he arrived in Dayton to pursue a career in nonprofit management and fell in love with the community. While working at several area organizations over the course of 7+ years, he always held a part-time serving position. Come Covid, he made the choice to transition back to his true passion— hospitality.

When he’s not welcoming you in or slinging cocktails, you’ll find him enjoying downtown, in the kitchen at home making a giant pot of soup regardless of the weather, or exploring with his four-legged best buds, Archie & Elwood.

Ginger Roddick, David Kittredge and Chris Dimmick