Desiree Ragusa
Charlotte,NC
Summary
Dynamic restaurant owner with a proven track record at Desiree’s Bagel Co, enhancing customer satisfaction through operational efficiency and exceptional service. Skilled in staff management and vendor relations, I cultivated a loyal clientele while implementing sustainable practices that boosted profitability and streamlined processes. Passionate about delivering memorable dining experiences.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Restaurant Owner/Operator
Desiree’s Bagel Co
Centereach, NY
08.2017 - 10.2024
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Established foundational processes for business operations.
- Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
- Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
- Maximized dining experience by designing an inviting atmosphere through thoughtful interior design choices and menu selections.
- Collaborated with local community organizations on various initiatives to boost brand visibility while giving back to the community.
- Cultivated a loyal customer base by consistently delivering exceptional dining experiences that exceeded expectations.
- Expanded catering services for private events resulting in increased revenue streams from off-site offerings.
- Managed financial aspects of the business including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting to stakeholders.
- Identified team weak points and implemented corrective actions to resolve concerns.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by implementing efficient service processes and training staff on exceptional customer service techniques.
- Implemented a successful staff reward and recognition program which increased employee morale, performance, and satisfaction.
- Increased restaurant profitability with cost-effective inventory management and strategic pricing strategies.
- Optimized menu offerings based on market research analysis leading to increased popularity among target demographics.
- Implemented high-quality food safety protocols to ensure the health and well-being of patrons and maintain compliance with regulations.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors to secure favorable pricing agreements, ensuring timely deliveries of quality products.
- Ensured compliance with all federal, state, and local regulatory requirements regarding employment practices and food safety standards.
- Negotiated favorable lease terms for the restaurant location resulting in reduced overhead costs and increased profitability.
- Sourced vendors, negotiated contracts, and managed efficient deliveries of high-quality supplies.
- Incorporated sustainable practices into daily operations which reduced overhead costs while promoting environmental responsibility.
- Managed payroll, daily deposits, and cost controls.
- Created and deployed successful strategies to boost restaurant performance, streamline food prep processes and reduce waste.
- Oversaw food preparation and monitored safety protocols.
- Implemented effective inventory control systems to reduce food spoilage and waste.
Education
High School Diploma - Hotel, Motel, And Restaurant Management
Miller Place High School
Miller Place, NYSkills
- Operational efficiency
- Online ordering management
- Local regulations compliance
- Food presentation
- Menu development
- Staff management
- Menu pricing
- Customer engagement
- Staff leadership
- Schedule management
- Staff supervision
- Inventory management
- Employee scheduling
- Staff hiring
- Labor cost controls
- Sales expertise
- Sales proficiency
- Health code compliance
- Nutrition
- Vendor relations
- Allergy awareness
- Teamwork
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Excellent communication
- Customer satisfaction
- Organizational skills
- Team collaboration
- Team leadership
- Money handling
- Decision-making
- Cash handling
- Food preparation
Certification
Certified food manager nys
Timeline
Restaurant Owner/Operator
Desiree’s Bagel Co
08.2017 - 10.2024
High School Diploma - Hotel, Motel, And Restaurant Management
Miller Place High School