Daniel Safford
St. Petersburg,FL
Summary
Experienced hospitality leader with a background in restaurant operations, regional management, and fine dining service. Skilled in training teams, improving service standards, and supporting efficient daily operations. Brings strong communication, leadership development, and guest-focused service.
Overview
1
1
Certification
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Fine Dining Server
Berns Steakhouse
Tampa, Florida
06.2018 - 03.2026
- Presented wine pairings from Bern's Steak House cellar selections to enhance guest dining experiences.
- Developed extensive wine and liquor service knowledge to elevate guest satisfaction.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate order delivery.
- Adapted to guest needs to provide personalized dining experiences and exceed expectations.
Fine Dining Server /Lead Trainer
Island Way Grill
Clearwater, Florida
11.2014 - 05.2018
- Trained new hires on service standards, enabling consistent delivery of fine dining experiences.
- Mentored new team members in fine dining etiquette and customer engagement, improving guest interactions.
- Conducted regular menu briefings, increasing staff confidence in discussing dishes and ingredients with guests.
- Oversaw presentation standards, ensuring all menu items met aesthetic and quality expectations.
- Encouraged open communication among team members, enhancing collaboration and service efficiency.
Managing Partner/Owner
NYA Catering and Events
Royal Oak, Michigan
05.2010 - 01.2015
- Developed strategic business plans to drive growth and enhance market presence.
- Implemented initiatives to increase profits and improve operational efficiency.
- Managed budgets to achieve financial stability and enhance profitability.
- Analyzed financial reports to identify trends, leading to implementation of cost-saving measures.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms and pricing to optimize expenditures.
- Established strong relationships with clients to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.
- Cultivated relationships with industry partners to expand service offerings.
Regional Manager
Johnny Rockets Restaurant
Auburn Hills, Michigan
05.2004 - 02.2008
- Directed Johnny Rockets restaurant operations across assigned regional locations.
- Developed and managed regional budgets to align with financial goals and operational needs
- Analyzed financial reports to identify trends and implement cost-saving measures across locations
- Monitored daily sales reports and operational labor controls to ensure alignment with financial targets
- Defined goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and performance standards for regional personnel
- Facilitated regular team meetings to align on goals, address challenges, and drive performance improvements
Education
Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Management
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV12-1995
Skills
- Restaurant operations
- Guest relations
- Customer service
- Sales management
- POS system operations
- Food safety certification
- Training and coaching
- Staff training
- Team building
- Regional operations
- Multi-location management
- Operational oversight
- Strategic planning
- Leadership development
- Time management
- Strong communication skills
- Hospitality service expertise
- Multi-million dollar P&L management
- Territory management
Certification
- Certified Sommelier / Court of Master Sommelier's
- ServSafe
- TIPS
Affiliations
- Volunteer, Suncoast Hospice - St Petersburg, FL (2020-Present)
Timeline
Fine Dining Server
Berns Steakhouse
06.2018 - 03.2026
Fine Dining Server /Lead Trainer
Island Way Grill
11.2014 - 05.2018
Managing Partner/Owner
NYA Catering and Events
05.2010 - 01.2015
Regional Manager
Johnny Rockets Restaurant
05.2004 - 02.2008
Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Management
University of Nevada, Las Vegas