Buffy Hopkins
Burbank,CA
Summary
Creating unforgettable guest experiences through hospitality, design, and leadership
Experienced with strategic planning, financial management, and team leadership. Utilizes industry knowledge to drive business growth and operational efficiency. Track record of creating and implementing innovative strategies to enhance profitability and productivity.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Owner / General Manager
Independent Cafés & Event Concepts
01.2020 - 09.2025
- Built and operated successful cafés known for exceptional guest service, creative menus, and event-friendly atmospheres.
- Directed all aspects of daily operations including staff leadership, vendor relations, and financial oversight.
- Produced and managed private events, weddings, and VIP gatherings for up to 1,000 guests across rooftops, studios, and outdoor venues.
- Partnered with entertainment clients and corporate brands to design elevated food, beverage, and service experiences.
- Led teams through fast-paced environments with a focus on hospitality, consistency, and community.
- Developed and executed innovative café concepts to enhance customer engagement.
- Streamlined operational processes, improving service efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Oversaw event planning logistics, coordinating with clients to meet specific needs and expectations.
- Implemented marketing strategies that increased local brand visibility and community involvement.
Event Director / Hospitality Manager
Messina Touring Group
04.2017 - 03.2020
- Designed and executed VIP hospitality spaces for top artists' national tours, including stadiums and amphitheatres.
- Managed build-outs, staff coordination, and high-end catering for thousands of guests per event.
- Ensured every activation upheld premium service standards and artist branding expectations.
- Touring Division
- Led strategic planning and execution of large-scale events, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Coordinated logistics for multiple concurrent events, optimizing resource allocation and vendor management.
- Developed and maintained relationships with key stakeholders, enhancing partnership opportunities and event success.
- Implemented event marketing strategies that increased participant engagement and brand visibility.
- Mentored junior staff on best practices for event management, fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Managed budget oversight for events, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or experience.
- Analyzed post-event feedback to identify areas for improvement, driving continuous enhancement of future events.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and venues, achieving favorable terms that supported overall event objectives.
Restaurant General Manager
High-Volume Dining & Entertainment Venues
01.2005 - 03.2017
- Oversaw daily operations, budgeting, and guest experience for busy full-service restaurants.
- Drove sales and brand reputation through exceptional service, creative promotions, and strong team culture.
- Implemented high standards of cleanliness, safety, and presentation to align with corporate and health guidelines.
- Los Angeles, CA
- Directed daily operations to enhance guest satisfaction and optimize service delivery.
- Implemented cost control measures, improving profitability while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Trained and developed management team, fostering leadership skills and operational efficiency.
- Spearheaded initiatives to elevate dining experiences, resulting in increased guest retention rates.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure quality supplies and negotiate favorable terms for the business.
- Oversaw compliance with health regulations to maintain safety standards and enhance operational integrity.
Education
Hospitality & Restaurant Management -
Event Production & Business Development - undefined
Skills
- Full-Service & Café Operations Management
- Event Production & Private Parties
- Team Training
- Leadership
- Cost Controls
- Guest Relations
- Community Engagement
- Vendor Partnerships
- Marketing Collaboration
- Health Compliance
- Quality Compliance
Certification
- Certified Manager ServSafe, Tips, RBS
Timeline
Owner / General Manager
Independent Cafés & Event Concepts
01.2020 - 09.2025
Event Director / Hospitality Manager
Messina Touring Group
04.2017 - 03.2020
Restaurant General Manager
High-Volume Dining & Entertainment Venues
01.2005 - 03.2017
Event Production & Business Development - undefined
Hospitality & Restaurant Management -
Personal Note
I bring a seasoned yet energetic approach - blending operational know-how, creative event vision, and a passion for guest connection to help launch and lead this destination to success.