Craig Fuelling
Fort Lauderdale
Summary
Experienced and dynamic Lead Bartender with a strong background in high-volume dining and beverage service. Known for exceptional customer service, effective team leadership, and expertise in liquor, wine, and food pairings. Proven ability to maintain a professional demeanor under pressure while driving sales, ensuring quality, and creating memorable guest experiences. Adept at implementing modern service protocols to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Bartender
El Vez
10.2021 - 01.2025
- Oversee daily bar operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and organization
- Train, mentor, and manage bar staff to enhance service efficiency and product knowledge
- Develop creative cocktail menus and seasonal specials to align with customer preferences and current trends, increasing bar revenue by 20%
- Deliver exceptional guest experiences by providing personalized recommendations and fostering a welcoming atmosphere
- Manage inventory and supplier relationships, ensuring consistent availability of premium-quality products
- Utilize POS systems to monitor sales trends, process payments accurately, and streamline operations.
Head Waiter
Blue Pointe Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
10.2015 - 03.2019
- Resolved customer issues with professionalism, ensuring a positive dining experience and fostering repeat business
- Assisted guests with menu selections by providing detailed knowledge of dishes, preparation methods, and wine pairings
- Supervised opening and closing procedures to ensure seamless daily operations
- Maximized sales by effectively upselling menu items and promoting special offerings
- Maintained a strong focus on quality control and timely service, contributing to the restaurant's positive reputation.
Waiter
Improv Comedy Club
07.2005 - 10.2013
- Delivered exceptional service in a fast-paced entertainment environment, balancing efficiency with personalized customer interactions
- Guided guests through menu options, answering questions about allergens, preparation methods, and pairings
- Consistently met and exceeded sales targets through effective upselling techniques
- Supported dining area setup and cleanup, ensuring a welcoming and orderly space for patrons.
Electrical Apprentice
Flappers Electric
12.2004 - 03.2005
- Operated tools and equipment to assist in electrical installations and repairs
- Maintained a clean and hazard-free work environment, ensuring safety and efficiency on job sites
- Assisted in the preparation and measurement of materials for various electrical tasks.
Forklift Operator
SADISCO Auto Auction
01.2000 - 05.2004
- Maneuvered forklifts to transport and organize materials, meeting tight shipping and inventory deadlines
- Conducted routine inspections of equipment to prevent damage and ensure operational safety
- Collaborated with team members to streamline loading and unloading processes.
Education
High School Diploma -
Stranahan High School
Fort Lauderdale, FL06.1999
Skills
- Expertise in wine, liquor, and food pairings
- Point of Sale (POS) system operations
- High-volume dining and beverage service
- Leadership and team management
- Effective upselling and revenue generation
- Menu memorization and personalized recommendations
- Quality control and attention to detail
- Plating and presentation
Certification
- ServSafe Alcohol Certification
- Bartending Mixology Certification
- Advanced Wine and Spirits Training
Timeline
Lead Bartender
El Vez
10.2021 - 01.2025
Head Waiter
Blue Pointe Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
10.2015 - 03.2019
Waiter
Improv Comedy Club
07.2005 - 10.2013
Electrical Apprentice
Flappers Electric
12.2004 - 03.2005
Forklift Operator
SADISCO Auto Auction
01.2000 - 05.2004
High School Diploma -
Stranahan High School
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