Alfreda Donaldson
Houston
Summary
Experienced hospitality professional with over 10 years of expertise in event planning, restaurant and catering management, and team leadership. Proven success in coordinating high-impact events, managing cross-functional teams, and driving client satisfaction through seamless execution. Detail-oriented, results-driven, and passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences. Holds a Bachelor’s in Hotel and Restaurant Management and ServSafe certification.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Restaurant Manager
Waffle House
Katy
03.2023 - 06.2024
- Managed a team of over thirty employees, payroll, scheduling, food cost, maintenance and profit and loss
Owner/Caterer
The Purple Orchid Catering
Houston
02.2018 - 03.2023
- Founded and operated a successful business for 8 years, overseeing all aspects of operations
- Developed and implemented strategic business plans to drive growth and increase profitability
- Managed a team of 15 employees, providing leadership, guidance, and support
- Oversaw budgeting and financial management, ensuring the company's financial health
- Established strong vendor relationships to negotiate favorable pricing terms and improve supply chain efficiency
Executive Meeting Specialist
The Westin galleria/ galleria oaks
Houston
04.2015 - 05.2018
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop event concepts and themes that aligned with client objectives
- Developed detailed event timelines, schedules, and production plans to ensure smooth operations during the entire event lifecycle
- Coordinated transportation logistics including arranging shuttle services or coordinating parking facilities for large-scale events attended by thousands of participants
- Provided on-site supervision during events ensuring seamless coordination between different stakeholders (caterers, decorators, technicians) leading up-to timely completion of set-up activities
- Created comprehensive post-event reports analyzing key metrics such as attendance numbers, participant feedback, revenue generated etc. providing valuable insights for future event planning
Restaurant Manager/Bar
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
Houston
05.2013 - 08.2015
- Created employee schedules to optimize staffing levels while meeting business demands
- Monitored inventory levels and placed orders for food, beverages, supplies, and equipment as needed
- Implemented cost control measures to reduce waste and minimize expenses without compromising quality
- Collaborated with the kitchen staff to develop new menu items based on customer preferences and market trends
- Ensured compliance with all health codes, licensing regulations, and labor laws
- Handled customer complaints or concerns promptly and effectively to ensure customer satisfaction
- Conducted regular meetings with staff to communicate goals, provide feedback, address issues or challenges
Catering Captain
Pappas Catering
Houston
04.2012 - 02.2014
- Managed a team of 8-10 staff members during large-scale events, effectively delegating tasks and ensuring smooth operations
- Oversaw the cotun and breakdown of event cnaces including arranging tables chaire linens
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Hotel, Resort And Restaurant Management
University of Houston
Houston, TX05-2016
Skills
- Client relationship
- Customer service
- Catering operations
- Staff training
- Problem solving
- Event billing
- Communication skills
- Vendor relations
- Client relationship management
- Team leadership and supervision
- Food and beverage planning
Timeline
Restaurant Manager
Waffle House
03.2023 - 06.2024
Owner/Caterer
The Purple Orchid Catering
02.2018 - 03.2023
Executive Meeting Specialist
The Westin galleria/ galleria oaks
04.2015 - 05.2018
Restaurant Manager/Bar
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
05.2013 - 08.2015
Catering Captain
Pappas Catering
04.2012 - 02.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Hotel, Resort And Restaurant Management
University of Houston