Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Timeline
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Charles Schott

Chicago,IL

Summary

Accomplished on-premise beverage specialist with a robust track record in budget management, brand development, and effective leadership, boasting over two decades of experience. Eager to apply my expertise to an in-house brand role within the beverage industry, particularly with LALO Spirits. Aspiring for a compensation package reflective of my extensive industry knowledge and proven track record

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Beverage Director

Land and Sea Dept
Chicago, IL
01.2021 - 10.2023
  • Orchestrated beverage programs across a diverse portfolio of 3 states, 5 concepts, and 9 outlets, demonstrating adept management of expansive operations.
  • Immediately rectified longstanding inefficiencies upon assuming the role, catalyzing a transformative impact on organizational profitability, productivity, quality, and revenue within a decade-long context.
  • Spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of the inventory platform, Restaurant365, ensuring Land and Sea Dept achieved accurate COGS for the first time in its 8-year history.
  • Elevated the operational and conceptual approach to the Chicago Athletic Association, contributing to the venue's recognition as one of the "Top 50 Bars in North America" for Milk Room.
  • Maintained operational standards through frequent travel to Austin and Nashville, dedicating 12 weeks annually to oversee operations in these key locations.
  • Successfully secured the hosting rights for the 2023 USBG World Class National Finals at Wax Myrtles in Austin, TX, resulting in a significant revenue boost of nearly $200k.
  • Established a strategic collaboration with Ole & Obrigado to import a private label Vinho Verde, "Patio Pounder," across all outlets in Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas, expanding the brand's presence and contributing to regional growth.

Beverage Director/Managing Partner

Parson's Chicken and Fish
Chicago, IL
04.2013 - 10.2023
  • Successfully collaborated with El Buho Mezcal to launch a limited edition “Parson’s Mezcal,” doubling sales for both Parson’s and El Buho in Chicago.
  • Led the strategic partnership with Revolution Brewing to introduce “Parson’s Beer,” selling over 1,500 cases annually across Chicago locations. This initiative enhanced the beer program's profitability by 10% and increased Parson's brand visibility in retail outlets such as Whole Foods.
  • Grew the Parson’s beverage program into a high-volume site, achieving the highest sales in the country for brands like Gosling’s Rum, Luxardo, Rhum JM, Control Pisco, El Buho Mezcal, and Revolution Brewing.
  • Obtained and negotiated lucrative and mutually beneficial sponsorship packages, contributing to the financial success and sustained growth of the brand.
  • Established “The Original Negroni Slushy” as a nationally recognized hallmark of the Parson’s brand, solidifying its status as a Chicago institution.
  • Identified and nurtured talent within the organization, cultivating an effective and knowledgeable high-volume staff.
  • Continuously garnered extensive local and national press coverage for the bar program at Parson’s, highlighted in publications such as Bon Appétit, Travel + Leisure, Chicago Magazine, and the recognition of Mixologist of the Year in 2013 by the Chicago Reader.

Head Bartender

Longman & Eagle
Chicago, IL
01.2010 - 04.2023
  • Cultivated a diverse and loyal customer base through exemplary service, a key factor in Longman's enduring success.
  • Spearheaded the development, maintenance, and operation of an exceptional bar program, consistently earning Michelin Stars each year during my tenure.
  • Effectively managed the inventory of thousands of rare and unique American Whiskies, ensuring a diverse and curated selection that contributed to the bar's distinct appeal.
  • Upheld and enhanced exceptional service standards, serving as a mentor to colleagues and fostering a culture of excellence within the team

Skills

Menu Planning:Designed and executed innovative and profitable menus, showcasing a keen understanding of culinary trends, customer preferences, and cost-effective ingredient selection

Cost Control:Implemented strategic cost control measures, optimizing operational efficiency while ensuring financial goals were consistently met or exceeded

Inventory Management:Effectively managed inventory systems, minimizing waste and maximizing product availability, leading to improved cost efficiency and timely restocking

Marketing:Developed and executed targeted marketing strategies, leveraging digital platforms and traditional channels to enhance brand visibility, attract new customers, and drive sales

Customer Complaint Resolution:Demonstrated proficiency in resolving customer concerns promptly and amicably, maintaining a positive customer experience and fostering brand loyalty

Public Speaking:Articulate and engaging public speaker, adept at presenting ideas, promotions, and product information in a compelling and persuasive manner

Customer Engagement:Implemented strategies to enhance customer engagement, fostering meaningful interactions through promotions, events, and personalized services to build lasting relationships

Customer Service Experience:Championed a customer-centric approach, ensuring a consistently high level of service that exceeded customer expectations and contributed to overall satisfaction

Sales:Consistently achieved and surpassed sales targets through effective product knowledge, upselling techniques, and a customer-focused sales approach

Quality Control:Maintained rigorous quality control standards across all aspects of operations, ensuring that products and services consistently met or exceeded established benchmarks for excellence

Timeline

Beverage Director

Land and Sea Dept
01.2021 - 10.2023

Beverage Director/Managing Partner

Parson's Chicken and Fish
04.2013 - 10.2023

Head Bartender

Longman & Eagle
01.2010 - 04.2023
Charles Schott