Ali Kakazada
Richmond,USA
Summary
Aspiring Brand Marketing Professional with 3+ years of hands-on experience in hospitality, brand engagement, and campaign execution. Proven ability to lead guest experience initiatives, support sales growth, and collaborate across departments. Demonstrated success in academic brand strategy projects and digital marketing campaigns. Passionate about elevating brand storytelling and innovation in the restaurant industry.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Server & Guest Experience Leader
Maggiano’s Little Italy
Henrico, USA
05.2023 - Current
- Recognized as “Top Sales Performer” for consistently leading upsell conversions and per-guest revenue.
- Delivered exceptional service to diverse guests; praised for professionalism and customer care.
- Adapted across roles (Server, Bartender, Banquet, Host, Carry-out) and supported team operations.
- Led guest experience enhancements and trained new hires, contributing to higher NPS and satisfaction scores.
- Collaborated with culinary and banquet teams to improve event execution and elevate brand consistency.
- Took initiative in identifying service gaps and proposing creative solutions to improve flow and guest engagement.
Business Explorer & Online Store Developer
Shopify
Remote
01.2021 - 06.2023
- Built and managed multiple Shopify stores to explore branding, sales, and eCommerce tools.
- Tested Facebook/TikTok ads, product pricing, and copywriting strategies.
- Developed skills in customer interaction, analytics tracking, and digital marketing funnels.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Marketing, Concentration: Product and Brand Management
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Richmond, VA05.2025
Skills
- Shopify
- Facebook Ads
- TikTok Ads
- Canva
- Excel
- Pivot Tables
- VLOOKUP
- Business Statistics
- Operations Management
- Customer Service
- Copywriting
- Research
- Public Speaking
- Team Collaboration
Websites
Projects
Microsoft Xbox Brand Audit, MKTG 310, 301, & 302, Spring 2025, Conducted survey-based research and competitive analysis; presented strategic marketing solutions. Experiential Campaign for Blue Moon, MKTG 430, Fall 2024, Created activation concept, pitch deck, and campaign strategy targeting consumer engagement. Online Café Business Simulation, BUSN 201, Spring 2023, Managed inventory, pricing, and financials in simulated startup; doubled sales in 3 months.
Timeline
Server & Guest Experience Leader
Maggiano’s Little Italy
05.2023 - Current
Business Explorer & Online Store Developer
Shopify
01.2021 - 06.2023
Bachelor of Science - Marketing, Concentration: Product and Brand Management
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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