Clayton Baines
Hitori Restaurant Group, LLC (Hanzo)
San Antonio,TX
16
years of professional experience
Experienced hospitality leader with 15+ years of success driving exceptional food and beverage operations in high-volume, upscale environments. Proven track record of managing operations generating $2.5M in annual revenue while implementing strategic cost controls that reduced operating expenses by 25%. Skilled in leading and developing teams of 15+ hospitality professionals, delivering elevated guest experiences, optimizing service standards, and developing high-margin menus. Strong background in maintaining operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and a polished service culture in fast-paced hospitality settings.
Work History
General Manager
1 Year 3 Months- Supervised daily functions to improve guest satisfaction and deliver a superior dining experience.
- Implemented comprehensive recruitment strategies, developed training initiatives, and assessed employee performance to drive organizational success.
- Formulated and executed cost control strategies to enhance profitability.
- Optimized inventory management systems to enhance stock monitoring and ordering efficiency.
Operating Partner
1 Year 9 Months- Established and enforced standard operating procedures aimed at optimizing staff performance.
- Fostered partnerships with local vendors to enhance product offerings and support community engagement initiatives.
- Monitored daily administrative tasks and provided support to staff members. Guided support staff in achieving organizational objectives. Maintained compliance with state, federal, and local regulations throughout the organization.
- Successfully managed budgets and allocated resources to maximize productivity and profitability.
Assistant General Manager
5 Years 11 Months- Streamlined operational workflows to enhance team efficiency and service quality.
- Kept restaurant compliant with all federal, state, and local hygiene and food safety regulations.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving customer complaints promptly and professionally.
- Coordinated private events, working closely with clients to ensure their vision was executed flawlessly while maximizing profitability for the restaurant.
Server
4 Years 11 Months- Delivered exceptional service to enhance overall dining experience and strengthen guest relationships.
- Managed dining room operations, ensuring smooth workflow during peak hours.
- Guided culinary students through essential front of house procedures, ensuring readiness for professional environments.
- Facilitated collaboration with kitchen staff to ensure timely food delivery and uphold presentation standards.
Server/Bartender
2 Years 2 Months- Cultivated strong relationships with guests by delivering personalized service and addressing individual needs effectively.
- Guided new servers and bartenders in mastering menu offerings and adhering to established service standards.
- Leveraged extensive expertise in beer, wine, spirits, and food to provide tailored recommendations to guests.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar and server areas, enhancing overall dining experience for guests.
Education
BBA - Management
- Concentration: Small Business & Entrepreneurship
Skills
P&L and Financial Management: Budgeting
forecasting
and labor-cost optimization
Operational Streamlining: Implementing modern POS
scheduling
and inventory software.
Supply Chain and Vendor Management: Negotiating contracts and supervising procurement.
Supply Chain and Vendor Management: Negotiating contracts and supervising procurement.
Regulatory Compliance: Overseeing TABC/Health Department standards and liability management.
Menu Engineering: Collaborating on food/beverage offerings to increase profit margins.
Timeline
General Manager
Hitori Restaurant Group, LLC (Hanzo)
05.2025 - CurrentRead More
Operating Partner
Garza Brothers Hospitality, LLC (Garaje Cantina)
08.2023 - 05.2025Read More
Assistant General Manager
KW Bar Investments, LLC (Francis Bogside)
09.2017 - 08.2023Read More
Server
Culinary Institute of America (NAO)
09.2012 - 08.2017Read More
Server/Bartender
Best Restaurant Group (Lüke)
06.2010 - 08.2012Read More
The University of Texas At San Antonio
BBA from Management
Read More