Dynamic beverage leader with a proven history of driving high-revenue programs, generating $16-$18 million in annual sales. Honored with James Beard semifinalist status and Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence, showcasing a commitment to quality and innovation in cocktail and spirit programming.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President
Puesto/Marisi/Roma Norte
San Diego , CA
10.2019 - 04.2026
Led multi-unit beverage program generating $16-$18 million in annual liquor sales.
Maintained average liquor cost at 10.5% to 12% annually, optimizing profitability.
Secured James Beard semifinalist status in 2025 for Roma Norte - Best New Bar, enhancing brand recognition.
Received Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence in 2024 for Marisi.
Established reputation as global leader in tequila industry, influencing market trends.
Bar & Spirits Director
The Restaurant at Meadowood
Saint Helena, CA
08.2018 - 10.2019
Curated and executed award-winning bar program for three-star Michelin-rated restaurant, enhancing guest experience and drink offerings.
Led bar team during nightly service, ensuring high standards of quality and consistency in beverage preparation.
Interviewed, trained, and supervised bar staff, fostering a knowledgeable team skilled in cocktail service and customer engagement.
Collaborated with Chef Kostow and kitchen team on dish and cocktail pairings.
Curated vintage spirit selection and conducted front-of-house team education.
Established large-format clear ice program for cocktails.
Developed in-house spirit modifiers and infusions.
Partnered with head farmer to integrate seasonal farm produce.
Served as primary media contact for cocktail program coverage.
Cocktail Director
Kinetescape- Clifton's Republic, The Edison LA & Orlando
08.2017 - 08.2018
Oversaw all divisions of bar programming at Clifton's.
Developed and executed bar programming initiatives, establishing brand identity.
Created innovative bar programming for Clifton's and Edison Orlando, attracting diverse clientele.
Curated cocktail kitchen offerings at Clifton's, elevating guest satisfaction and experience.
Reduced liquor costs from 22% to 16% while maintaining quality.
Negotiated spirit brand partnerships, optimizing pricing structures at Clifton's.
Reoriented brand reputation within media and industry circles.
Served as primary contact for media coverage related to cocktail programming.
Bar Director (Opening Team)
The Corner Door
Culver City, CA
04.2012 - 08.2017
Designed and executed internationally recognized, award-winning cocktail program.
Named Bartender of the Year by Eater Los Angeles in 2014.
Curated dynamic, versatile spirit selection to complement cocktail offerings.
Created draft cocktail program with signature recipes to elevate guest experience.
Implemented in-house large format clear ice production to enhance cocktail presentation.
Developed in-house spirits modifiers and infusions to enrich flavor profiles.
Interviewed, trained, and supervised all bar staff members.
Served as primary media contact for cocktail program coverage.
Lead Bartender (Opening Team)
Manhattan Beach Post
Manhattan Beach, CA
03.2011 - 03.2012
Developed innovative cocktail program that combined classic recipes with contemporary reinventions to elevate guest experience.
Collaborated with GM and executive chef to design and enhance cocktail program, ensuring alignment with restaurant's vision.
Trained staff on cocktail spirits and extensive wine selections, improving service knowledge and customer satisfaction.
Led beverage service for bar and restaurant during all high-volume shifts.
Cultivated relationships with local and regional food and beverage writers and bloggers.
Bar Director(Opening Team)
Andaz West Hollywood
West Hollywood, CA
11.2008 - 10.2009
Developed and maintained beverage concepts for Andaz West Hollywood, including RH Restaurant and Bar, Rooftop Sundeck Pool Bar, and banquet divisions.
Created innovative cocktail menus for beverage outlets, enhancing guest experience and engagement.
Established comprehensive service standards and protocols for beverage outlets, ensuring consistency and quality across all platforms.
Managed beverage inventory and requisition systems to optimize supply chain operations.
Trained staff on beverage standards and execution to improve service delivery.
Designed and implemented specialty cocktail programming for private events, elevating offerings and guest satisfaction.
Supervised monthly inventories and P&L management to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Education
B.S. - Secondary Education of Theatre and Speech
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
Skills
Strategic marketing
Corporate communications
Strategic partnerships
Budget preparation
Cost analysis
Vendor management
Inventory control
Team leadership
Staff development
Social media
Accomplishments
Eater Los Angeles - Bartender of the Year - 2014
Timeline
Vice President
Puesto/Marisi/Roma Norte
10.2019 - 04.2026
Bar & Spirits Director
The Restaurant at Meadowood
08.2018 - 10.2019
Cocktail Director
Kinetescape- Clifton's Republic, The Edison LA & Orlando