Ajai Cave
Columbia,SC
Summary
Professional with solid background in managing daily operations and team leadership in fast-paced customer service settings. Known for strong team collaboration, adaptability, and independently handling business needs. Skilled in customer satisfaction, staff development, and operational efficiency. Trusted for reliability and effective problem-solving in dynamic environments. Offers progressive experience combined with sound judgement and good problem-solving abilities. Strong record of surpassing organizational goals.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Restaurant Manager
Everyday Coffee Company - Dunkin'
Columbia, SC
12.2025 - Current
- Hired, trained, and led a team to deliver exceptional customer service through food and beverage quality assurance.
- Managed costs, inventory, and scheduling to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Maintained a clean and safe environment in compliance with food safety standards.
- Executed both opening and closing procedures efficiently.
- Created a welcoming atmosphere by addressing inquiries and resolving patron issues.
Assistant General Manager
MOD Pizza
Columbia, SC
09.2025 - 12.2025
- Enhanced staff efficiency by rotating between front and back-of-house duties.
- Streamlined recruitment and onboarding process to build skilled service teams.
- Reduced labor costs by optimizing scheduling during peak operational hours.
- Facilitated cross-department collaboration to improve team communication and synergy.
- Implemented new operational procedures, boosting daily task efficiency and performance.
- Maintained inventory control, minimizing losses through effective monitoring practices.
Shift Lead
Canal Coffee Company
Columbia, SC
06.2025 - 09.2025
- Elevated service quality through effective supervision of daily operations.
- Ensured safety by maintaining a consistently clean and organized work environment.
- Enhanced training for new hires on coffee preparation and customer service.
- Optimized inventory levels, reducing waste through effective management practices.
- Addressed customer complaints swiftly, improving satisfaction and retention rates.
- Executed store opening and closing procedures, ensuring accurate till balancing.
Shift Lead
Dunkin’ Donuts
Waynesboro, VA
04.2025 - 06.2025
- Achieved high service standards through effective daily operational support.
- Resolved conflicts swiftly, enhancing customer satisfaction in various service settings.
- Maintained employee productivity to fulfill business and customer demands efficiently.
- Created a welcoming atmosphere by addressing inquiries and resolving patron issues.
Manager
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Charlottesville, VA
04.2022 - 04.2025
- Developed and implemented process improvements that elevated team performance and productivity.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and meet strategic objectives.
- Supervised shifts, ensured theaters were properly stocked and closed, and led teams to meet service goals.
- Trained new servers on guest service, POS use, and operational standards.
- Oversaw opening/closing duties, optimized staff workflow, and resolved guest issues.
- Trained in multiple roles to support efficient service flow.
Assistant Manager, Customer Service
Visulite Cinemas
Staunton, VA
09.2021 - 03.2022
- Managed ticket and concession sales, addressed guest needs, and maintained proper projector maintenance.
- Led daily operations to enhance customer experience and service efficiency.
- Supervised day-to-day operations to meet performance, quality and service expectations.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized store environment to enhance the customer experience.
- Oversaw daily cash intake and deposits, ensuring accurate financial reporting and minimizing discrepancies.
- Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
Server, To-Go Specialist, Prep Cook
Outback Steakhouse
Waynesboro, VA
03.2021 - 09.2021
- Delivered exceptional customer service in fast-paced dining environment.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Managed multiple tables simultaneously while maintaining high service standards.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate food delivery.
- Monitored guest satisfaction and proactively addressed concerns for improved experience.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
To-Go Specialist
Texas Roadhouse
Columbia, SC
11.2020 - 02.2021
- Ensured customer satisfaction by coordinating accurate and timely to-go orders.
- Enhanced efficiency in to-go service delivery by streamlining packaging processes.
- Maintained high food presentation and safety standards through quality control measures.
- Conveyed menu options and estimated delivery times during phone order interactions.
- Resolved customer concerns promptly, maintaining professionalism in high-stress situations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Shakespeare & Performance: Theatre & Film
Mary Baldwin University
Staunton, VA05-2022
IB Diploma - undefined
Richland Northeast High School
Columbia, SC06-2018
Skills
- Staff Management
- Hospitality Leadership
- Inventory Control
- Staff Development
- Operations Management
- Guest Relations
- Time Management & Workflow Optimization
- Customer Service Excellence
- Conflict Resolution
- Opening & Closing Procedures
Timeline
Restaurant Manager
Everyday Coffee Company - Dunkin'
12.2025 - Current
Assistant General Manager
MOD Pizza
09.2025 - 12.2025
Shift Lead
Canal Coffee Company
06.2025 - 09.2025
Shift Lead
Dunkin’ Donuts
04.2025 - 06.2025
Manager
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
04.2022 - 04.2025
Assistant Manager, Customer Service
Visulite Cinemas
09.2021 - 03.2022
Server, To-Go Specialist, Prep Cook
Outback Steakhouse
03.2021 - 09.2021
To-Go Specialist
Texas Roadhouse
11.2020 - 02.2021
IB Diploma - undefined
Richland Northeast High School
Bachelor of Arts - Shakespeare & Performance: Theatre & Film
Mary Baldwin University