CONNER R. DIEFENDORF
Tampa
Summary
Ambitious and highly motivated hospitality professional with a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences and driving sales through authentic connection and service. A natural people person with strong communication and leadership skills, dedicated to fostering positive team dynamics and ensuring smooth, high-energy operations. Leads by example—showing up with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. Experienced in guest engagement, staff support, and sales-focused service, with a proven ability to educate, upsell, and build lasting customer relationships. Eager to contribute to a dynamic sales team that values hospitality, teamwork, and a genuine passion for people.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Taproom Manager
Cigar City Brewing
12.2021 - Current
- Oversee daily taproom operations, ensuring seamless service, adherence to health and safety regulations, and optimal guest experience.
- Coordinate events and schedule private events to boost taproom traffic.
- Develop and implement sales strategies, events, and promotions to drive taproom revenue and enhance brand awareness.
- Enforce compliance with state and federal alcohol laws, promoting responsible service and maintaining a safe, welcoming atmosphere.
- Designs innovative approaches to optimize workflow, streamline procedures, and enhance customer service satisfaction levels.
- Manage hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation of taproom staff, fostering a collaborative and customer-focused team environment.
- Maintain inventory control, ordering beer, merchandise, and supplies to ensure efficient stock levels and minimize waste.
- Monitor financial performance, track key metrics, and manage cash handling and point-of-sale (POS) systems.
- Conflict resolution and customer satisfaction prioritized.
Lead Server
Outback Steakhouse
12.2018 - 12.2021
- Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring a positive and memorable dining experience.
- Managed table assignments, monitor turnover, and coordinate with kitchen staff for efficient service.
- Processed orders accurately, handle transactions through POS systems, and ensure compliance with food safety and alcohol regulations.
- Supported management in executing promotions and enhancing guest satisfaction.
- Lead and mentored front-of-house staff, assisting with training and performance coaching.
- Maintained composure in high-volume periods, prioritizing tasks to optimize workflow.
- Upheld cleanliness and organization standards to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Education
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - History
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL, US12.2022
Associate in Arts (A.A.) - Liberal Arts
South Florida State College
Avon Park06.2020
Skills
- Scheduling coordination
- Beer tasting
- Problem-solving
- Cash handling
- Training and mentoring
- Brand awareness
- Customer service
- Team leadership
- Decision-making
- Team building
- Taproom operations
- Event coordination
- Sales strategy development
- Alcohol compliance
Certification
- Food Safety Handler
- Alcohol ServeSafe Certification
- Level 1 Beer Server (Cicerone)
Timeline
Taproom Manager
Cigar City Brewing
12.2021 - Current
Lead Server
Outback Steakhouse
12.2018 - 12.2021
Associate in Arts (A.A.) - Liberal Arts
South Florida State College
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - History
University of South Florida
AWARDS
2023 Monster Brewing Company Employee of the Quarter