Derek Baca
Chicago,Illinois
Summary
Experienced Hospitality Manager with demonstrated history in the hospitality. Experienced in fast-paced environments and adaptable to last-minute changes. Thrives under pressure and consistently earns high marks for work quality and speed. Strengths include team leadership, customer service, bar knowledge, & inventory management. Known for fostering strong staff performance and improving operational efficiency.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Hospitality Manager
Stolen Saddle / Santa Baby Bar
Chicago, IL
05.2023 - Current
- Oversee daily operations, including scheduling, staff management, and inventory control, ensuring smooth service during peak business hours.
- Manage and train a team of bartenders, servers, and support staff to maintain high standards of customer service and efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and alcohol regulations.
- Handled customer inquiries and resolved service-related issues promptly.
- Coordinated event planning and execution for private events and corporate gatherings.
- Directly oversee the barback & busser department operations.
Bartender/Server
Stolen Saddle / Santa Baby Bar
Chicago, IL
12.2019 - Current
- Provide high-quality bartending and service in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
- Develop and implement strategies to increase sales, upsell beverages, and maximize profitability.
- Build strong guest relationships.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar and service areas.
- Trained new bartenders on drink recipes and service procedures.
Busser/Barback
Deuce’s and the Diamond Club
Chicago, IL
08.2017 - 12.2019
- Assisted bartenders by stocking beer, wine, liquor, and other bar supplies.
- Consistently checked inventory levels and communicated needs to management team.
- Assisted in bussing tables and dishwashing during rush hours.
- Maintained a clean work environment by sweeping floors and disposing of trash.
Busser
Tuco and Blondie
Chicago, IL
09.2016 - 06.2017
- Maintained a friendly attitude towards customers at all times.
- Cleared tables promptly to maintain a clean dining environment.
- Reset tables in an orderly fashion.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth service flow.
Dishwasher/Prep Cook
The Red Lion Pub
Chicago, IL
05.2016 - 09.2016
- Operated dishwashing equipment efficiently during peak service hours.
- Scrubbed and sanitized dishes, pots, pans, utensils, and other kitchen equipment.
- Maintained cleanliness of kitchen and dining utensils throughout shifts.
Education
High School Diploma -
Bridgton Academy
North Bridgton, ME05.2016
High School Diploma -
Saint Benedict Preparatory Schools
Chicago, IL06.2015
Skills
- Floor Management
- Bartending & Mixology
- Customer Service & Guest Relations
- Staff Training & Leadership
- Inventory & Cash Handling
- Conflict Resolution
- High-Volume Service
- Employee Scheduling
- Menu Development
Certification
- ServSafe Sanitation Manager Certified
- Basset Certified
- Food Handler's Certified
- Allergens Certified
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Hospitality Manager
Stolen Saddle / Santa Baby Bar
05.2023 - Current
Bartender/Server
Stolen Saddle / Santa Baby Bar
12.2019 - Current
Busser/Barback
Deuce’s and the Diamond Club
08.2017 - 12.2019
Busser
Tuco and Blondie
09.2016 - 06.2017
Dishwasher/Prep Cook
The Red Lion Pub
05.2016 - 09.2016
High School Diploma -
Bridgton Academy
High School Diploma -
Saint Benedict Preparatory Schools