Jason Waganheim

- Managing Partner

Graduate of University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management, Managing Partner Jason Waganheim brings both academic knowledge and professional experience to the helm of Cork's multi-faceted operation. Prior to Cork, Waganheim managed such esteemed Sarasota establishments as Polo Grill and Bar, Fred's Restaurant and Café l'Europe. An intensely disciplined approach to the restaurant industry anchors Waganheim's demeanor, while inflections of creativity offer glimpses at the "foodie" within. And don't be fooled by the Brooks Brothers exterior: when not devoting his days and nights to Cork's success, Waganheim spends his free time in flip-flop only style. For this emerging force in the Sarasota industry, the island life is the only way to go.

Thomas Hodgson

- Executive Chef

Executive Chef Thomas Hodgson is the creative force driving Cork restaurant's innovative cuisine, and his current role merely tops a resume boasting some of Sarasota and Tampa Bay's most reputable modern dining establishments. A brief time period as Cork's Chef de Cuisine preceded his promotion to Executive Chef of this innovative dining concept. Prior to Cork, Hodgson worked as Sous Chef at Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine, opened multiple destinations for Chef Paul Mattison, and created award-winning contemporary fare at SideBern's Tampa. An emerging commitment to local produce, artistic attention to presentation, and penchant for classic cuisine with a twist are the main characteristics of Hodgson's culinary style. When time permits and the weather coincides, Hodgson spends time with the main loves of his life: vintage Volkswagens, fleeting surf sessions, and a growing family.

Rebecca Robinson

- Communications Director/WSET Certified Wine Specialist

Entering her third year as CORK's Wine Specialist and Communications Director, Robinson joined CORK with a resume of international work experience impressive for her youth. From South Africa to France, from New York to Sarasota, Robinson's wine industry experience and education span cultural divides and formats. An Advanced Certification through the UK based Wine and Spirits Education Trust places Robinson in a tier of wine specialists populated by only a handful of local professionals. Passionate about education and the presentation of wine in a non-intimidating, approachable manner, Robinson brings a relaxed yet informative perspective to CORK, its staff and clientele. As Communications Director, Robinson coordinates the restaurant's marketing, advertising, and public relations needs in keeping with the restaurant's brand concept. When not dreaming of the vineyards of France, Robinson spends weekends on Lido beach, pairing rosé with a tan.