Ari Kirk

Work History

Meetings and Events Manager

Pendry Hotels

01.2023 - Current

Achieved 110% of individual sales goal in 2023.
Utilized various forms of communication to ensure messages are delivered including email, texts, calls and in person.
Eagerly receptive to feedback both positive and constructive and will take action on both.
Implemented new standard procedure for revised expected revenue before group arrival. This resulted in retaining additional $78,411.56 from single contract in Q1 that would have otherwise been lost.
Delivered exceptional customer service to attendees, addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
Led cross-functional teams in execution of successful events, fostering collaboration and communication among all stakeholders.
Solicited feedback from clients to assess event success and uncover opportunities for improvement.
Evaluated existing plans, processes and events planning services to identify opportunities for improvement.

Events Sales Manager

Pendry Hotels

04.2022 - 01.2023

Mentored junior team members on best practices in event sales management, fostering culture of continuous growth and development within team.
Conducted post-event analyses to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes for future success.
Achieved 113% annual sales revenue goal in 2022.
In Q4 covered the Meetings and Events Manager (including producing Resumes for all Group business) while simultaneously continuing to meet & exceed goals in role as Event Sales Manager.
Overhauled BEO distribution systems to maximize efficiency resulting in reduction of 1.5 hours daily dedicated to this task.
Fostered strong relationships with all of internal stakeholders by proactively engaging intentionally outside of times when it is related to any specific client requests.
Exhibited methodical approach to problem solving presenting proposed solutions alongside challenge.
Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.

Realtor

Taylor Realty Partners

12.2018 - 04.2022

Coordinated various aspects of real estate transactions such as inspections, appraisals, and financing arrangements, minimizing delays and challenges for clients.
Built lasting relationships with clients through excellent communication, personalized service, and dedication to their needs.
Developed strong knowledge of local market conditions, allowing for accurate pricing strategies and targeted marketing efforts.
Enhanced client satisfaction with diligent follow-up after closing, ensuring positive experience overall.
Manage extensive contact list comprised of Brokers, Investors, Contractors, and other real estate professionals.
Generate and assess incoming investment opportunities assuring high rate of return for investors.

Server

The Gwen Hotel

08.2017 - 03.2019

Monitor sales floor to ensure service not only meets, but exceeds guest expectations
Engage with guests in order to create unique dining experience
Assist with menu selections, integrating suggestive selling techniques to boost sales
Create eye pleasing displays for both regular service and private events
Transition seamlessly to various departments including Bar and In Room Dining as needed.

Manager/ Event Coordinator

Tiny Industries

03.2017 - 10.2017

Established weekly comedy series, generating additional revenue on previously slow nights
Facilitated biweekly happy hour and screening event with local social club to boost Tuesday night sales
Generated successful sales models for Catering and Events at both Tiny Tavern and Tiny Tapp resulting in 400% increase in events booked
Balanced duties as Event Coordinator for two locations with those of Restaurant Manager, maintaining high quality of work for both
Increased profit margins for Catered Events by average of 20%
Educated staff daily on menu items including coaching on various menu items, liquor and wine
Developed specialty cocktails and more refined menu items for private events and regular service
Created custom menus, including printed materials for Catering guests as requested
Designed company business cards
Managed social media accounts for Tiny Tavern Navy Pier and Tiny Tapp Riverwalk
Interviewed, Hired, and Trained new staff
Wrote staffing schedule weekly with regard to projected sales and Navy Pier events.

Manager

LYFE Kitchen

01.2016 - 01.2017

Modified Procedures for preparation and storage of various products resulting in 53% overall reduction in inventory Dollar Value Variance, and 62% reduction in waste of top ten dollar menu items within two months of transferring to Lincoln Park Location
Created more efficient system of logging product waste, resulting in 54% reduction of high dollar items
Developed line check sheets for FOH, improving product quality and minimizing waste
Currently used company wide
Boosted beverage sales by sending samples in Uber bags that is being utilized by all locations
Promoted within six months of hire
Identified and create new ways of utilizing opportunities to drive business forward
Conducted biweekly inventory counts
Performed line and temperature checks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.

Chef Proprietor

Finer Pointe Catering

01.2014 - 01.2017

Startup Catering company specializing in customization of menus to fit clients needs and budget
Oversaw storage, transport, and timely setup of prepared food, staff, and equipment
Prepared all menu items from scratch, using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients
Corresponded with clients via email, phone, and face to face interaction
Development and upkeep of company website
Maintained profitable business model.

P.M. Line Cook

The Chicago Club

01.2015 - 01.2016

Assessed prep needs for successful service, and prepare items according to club standards
Prepared meals for employee cafeteria
Devised custom meals as requested by members in timely fashion
Transitioned quickly between multiple departments in order to execute large, or simultaneously occurring events
Created menu items, hors d'oeuvres, and appetizers with regard to seasonality and member preferences
Engaged with club members in open kitchen or action station setting
Modified station setup for maximum efficiency after menu and shift changes
Performed consistently at high level without supervision
Maintained productivity during slow periods by organizing, aiding other departments, and otherwise increasing efficiency.

P.M. Line Cook

The Blackstone Hotel

01.2012 - 01.2015

Prepared various menu items needed for day's reservations, parties, and events
Trained new employees on standard of procedure for all menu items
Assisted in Banquet, Line Prep, Pastry, Garde Manger, Employee Cafeteria, and Hotel VIP Lounge as needed
Organized line set for Garde Manger, Dessert, Hot Appetizer, Saute, Grill, and Oven stations for best efficiency
Plated entrees, appetizers, desserts, and charcuterie elegantly and in timely fashion
High volume fine dining restaurant (300 covers on average night.)

Summary

Overview

Work History

Meetings and Events Manager

Events Sales Manager

Realtor

Server

Manager/ Event Coordinator

Manager

Chef Proprietor

P.M. Line Cook

P.M. Line Cook

Education

Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts

Bachelor of Arts - Culinary Arts

Skills

Work Availability

Timeline

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