Advisory & Assessment Services

Lee Plotkin’s journey into purchasing management began at the age of 8, negotiating supplier prices for citrus and sugar for his lemonade stand. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Plotkin’s early interest in business grew into a passion for hospitality and food service. After high school, he spent six years working as a waiter, bartender, and restaurant manager, gaining hands-on experience across multiple facets of the industry.

Driven to solidify his career in hospitality, Plotkin pursued a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration. After graduation, he refined his expertise in purchasing with companies such as Hilton Hotels, Harvey Hotels, La Madeleine Bakeries & Cafés, and FootAction USA.

In 2001, Plotkin founded LP Enterprises, Inc. with a mission to help growing restaurant companies uncover cost-saving opportunities through optimized purchasing and supply programs. His company has since thrived, as start-ups and established brands alike recognize the value of outsourcing purchasing functions to expert consultants. Through LP Enterprises, clients benefit from an experienced perspective that identifies cost-saving opportunities others may overlook.

Plotkin is an active member of the Food Consultant's Group. Outside of work, you might find him biking around the Dallas metroplex, perfecting beef grilling techniques, or enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir with family and friends

Donna Ramsey began her career in 1981 in residential and commercial real estate. Her professional journey took a significant turn when the firm she worked for transitioned into the hospitality industry, managing over 30 Cicis Pizza locations across Texas, Missouri,Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Through this experience, Donna developed into a highly accomplished professional with a reputation for optimizing internal business practices and streamlining operations.

Known for her ability to oversee daily administrative operations, Donna plays a key role in driving organizational growth and supporting both short- and long-term company goals. Her unwavering commitment to excellence ensures financial and operational stability, while her ethical approach underscores the company’s values.

Donna takes pride in providing exceptional service to clients, collaborating closely with them to achieve their goals and support the growth of their businesses. Her strong judgment and decision-making skills make her an invaluable asset to the team.

Outside of work, Donna is enthusiastic about giving back to her community. She volunteers for organizations like the Susan G. Komen Foundation and Light the Night, among other charitable causes. In her free time, she enjoys making memories with family and friends.

A native of Louisiana, Ryan Layne moved to North Texas and has since built a distinguished career in the restaurant and hospitality industry, spanning over 25 years. Ryan’s journey began at the age of 15, flipping burgers at Wendy’s, and it quickly became clear that he had found his passion in the service industry.

After joining Chili's Bar and Grill during his senior year of high school, Ryan spent the next 13 years mastering every aspect of the business. From Dishwasher to Assistant General Manager, he gained invaluable hands-on experience in operations, leadership, and customer service.

Seeking to broaden his career, Ryan transitioned to Sysco, starting as a Sales Consultant. Over the next few years, he refined his skills in sales and client management, rising to the role of District Sales Manager and then Director of New Business Development where Ryan focused on building long-term, strategic partnerships with emerging restaurant chains, helping them thrive in an increasingly competitive market over the course of the next 5 years. 

Ryan’s comprehensive understanding of both the operational and business sides of the hospitality industry, combined with his dedication to building strong client relationships, has established him as a trusted leader in the field. This expertise led him to join the LP Enterprises team, where he now focuses exclusively on what he truly loves—helping restauranteurs maximize their profits in an ever-evolving industry.

When he's not working hard on behalf of his clients, you will find Ryan managing the firebox on his BBQ smoker at his home in Melissa, Texas, or spending time at the park with his wife and four dogs.

Laura Frank Barnard serves as the Chief Financial Officer of L.P. Enterprises, bringing over 30 years of C-suite leadership experience in finance, strategy, operations, and M&A. She has a proven track record of driving growth and innovation in manufacturing and distribution across food and non-food sectors, with a particular focus on retail grocery, foodservice, and hospitality.

Laura’s career includes key leadership roles at Pacific Coast Producers, Transwestern Polymers, and Halperns’ Steak & Seafood, where her strategic vision and execution led to over $1 billion in top-line growth. With a strong background in scaling businesses through joint ventures and acquisitions as well as the past decade as an investor, founder, and advisor in multiple tech and non tech ventures, she combines financial expertise with a deep understanding of market dynamics. Laura earned her MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and continues to bring her insight and expertise to support L.P. Enterprises’ impact in the hospitality industry.