The People Behind The Rock
Who We Are
From the kitchen to the stage to your event, The Rock runs on a team that knows this venue inside out. Get to know the people making it happen.
Spencer Alphonso brings a diverse background in leadership, hospitality, education, and operations to his role as Operating Partner of The Rock. A United States Marine Corps veteran, Spencer developed his foundation in leadership, discipline, accountability, and teamwork through his military service—principles that have continued to guide him throughout his career.
His hospitality journey has taken him from bartending in Japan to working in the pizza and restaurant industry, giving him experience in both the guest-facing and operational sides of hospitality. He later transitioned into education, where he led programs, developed teams, managed complex day-to-day operations, and built systems designed to help both staff and students succeed. That combination of hospitality and organizational leadership shaped Spencer's people-first approach to management.
As Operating Partner of The Rock, Spencer oversees restaurant operations with a focus on team development, operational excellence, guest experience, and sustainable growth. Working alongside The Rock's culinary, events, and entertainment leadership, he is committed to creating a culture built on accountability, collaboration, and genuine hospitality.
Spencer believes the strongest operations begin with strong people. His goal is to give his team the leadership, tools, and support they need to succeed while ensuring every guest who walks through the doors of The Rock receives an experience worth returning for.
Email Spencer →Executive Chef Trevor Seward brings a lifetime of passion, service, and fire-crafted cooking to The Rock. A United States Marine Corps veteran who served two overseas deployments, Trevor discovered that the same discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence carried seamlessly into the culinary world. After his military service, he built a successful barbecue catering company, a food truck, and an award-winning BBQ restaurant, serving thousands of guests throughout California and the Sierra Nevada region.
From catering countless weddings and special events to feeding thousands of wildfire evacuees alongside Red Cross disaster relief efforts, Trevor has always believed great food has the power to bring people together. Today, as Executive Chef at The Rock, he combines classic barbecue traditions with bold California flavors, creating handcrafted dishes rooted in quality, hospitality, and scratch cooking. Trevor is passionate about sharing his award-winning barbecue techniques, developing memorable menus, and ensuring every guest leaves with an unforgettable dining experience with utmost quality.
Contact Trevor →A music industry executive with 20+ years in live entertainment, venue management, and concert production. Ryan began his career with the Dave Matthews Band organization and has since produced live experiences across the country. Today he leads concert programming and event production on the Central Coast. (Full bio on the SLO Brew Live page.)
Email Ryan →With more than 30 years of experience in hospitality, catering, and event management, Todd Eads brings a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences and delivering seamless events from concept to execution. Throughout his career, he has led event sales and operations for premier venues, luxury clubs, and award-winning catering companies, building successful teams and creating memorable events.
As Director of Event Sales & Operations at The Rock SLO, Todd oversees every aspect of the client journey — from the initial tour and planning process through event execution. His expertise includes weddings, corporate events, and social celebrations, with a focus on personalized service, operational excellence, and unforgettable experiences.
Known for his collaborative leadership style and attention to detail, Todd works closely with clients, vendors, and The Rock's culinary and operations teams to ensure every event reflects each client's unique vision. Whether planning an intimate celebration or a large-scale event, his goal is simple: to make every guest feel welcomed and every event truly memorable.
Email Todd →Get In Touch
Whether it's a private event, a booking inquiry, or a question about the kitchen — our team is here to help.