MEET THE TEAM
Brian Gondek
Chief Operating Officer
Born and raised in Havertown, Brian is an active and honorary member of the community with his wife Jessica, and four daughters. Brian graduated from Villanova with a degree in Business Administration and received his law degree from Widener. While practicing law as a GP, he was approached with the opportunity to get involved with something from the ground floor—Brick & Brew Gastropub. After being with the company since its inception, Brian confidently states the best part of his role at Brick & Brew is the people he works with, the team.
Two of Brian’s daughters are twins.
Jim baillis
director of operations
Jim is a Penn State University Graduate with a B.A. in Hospitality Management. He has over 15 years of restaurant experience. He started as a server while pursuing his degree. He’s since been everything from
service manager, assistant general manager and general manager for multiple restaurant concepts and groups. He joined the Brick & Brew team as the General Manager of our Media restaurant before becoming Director of Operations.
Jim is a family man who spends most of his personal time with his sisters Jamie and Carly. He enjoys running, averaging 6 miles a day.
Gabriella Kelly
Marketing Director
Temple Graduate with a B.A in Media Studies Production and Business Entrepreneurship. Originally from Newtown Square, Gabriella has since lived in three time- zones and has had a successful career in marketing and media for the last fourteen years. From creation to execution, Gabriella's passions lie in the business of digital marketing, website design, branding, graphic design, social media strategy and management, public relations, and events. Gabriella joined Brick & Brew in August 2021. She’s been a huge fan of Brick & Brew since inception, both the brand and culture, and is honored to be a part of the family.
Gabriella has road-tripped cross-country twice, hiking and camping at National Parks and embracing Earth’s beauty--(with her two doggos).
mark bandjough
Executive Head Chef
Over 25 years of restaurant experience ranging from Italian, American Continental, Fine Dining, Cajun and Creole, and even Senior Living Communities. Applying Banjo’s knowledge and wide range of cuisines, he enjoys fusing classic dishes with modern techniques to bring elevated pub fare to Brick & Brew.
Mark has bowled 11 strikes in a row,
2 separate times.
kelsey jackson
beverage Director
Kelsey has been working in hospitality since she was 14. She started as a server at Brick & Brew in 2015 and moved up to bartending, bar managing, and assistant manager before transitioning into her role as our Beverage Director.
Kelsey is an artist with a degree in art education. She has 4 cats, one of which has only 3 legs.
VALERIE kretenko
human resources
Valerie has been in the restaurant and hospitality industry for over 10 years. After becoming general manager of her own pizza franchise at just 19 years old, she knew the restaurant industry was for her.
She’s worked for well-known restaurant groups in casual dining, fine dining and even in airport restaurant operations. Starting as a server and a bartender, she’s moved through the ranks throughout the years from service manager, bar manager, assistant general manager, and general manager all before the age of 30. She joined the Brick & Brew team as the Assistant General Manager of our Media restaurant before becoming Head of Human Resources.
“Valerie is 1 of 4 sisters, one of which is her twin. When she’s not busy working, she enjoys playing and coaching Field Hockey as well as hiking and staying active. “