Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Devlin O'Connor

Summary

Motivated and experienced server with 27 years in the hospitality industry. Skilled in delivering exceptional customer service, efficiently managing tables, and addressing guest needs to create memorable dining experiences. Proven track record of exceeding sales goals through suggestive selling and maintaining a positive, welcoming demeanor in fast-paced environments. Successfully launched and grew a personal chef and catering business from the ground up in 2020, specializing in high-quality and personalized catering services for corporate events, weddings, and special occasions. Led a dedicated team, providing leadership, training, and guidance to ensure the highest level of service delivery and customer satisfaction. Graduated from Arizona Culinary Institute in 2003 after completing a chef's apprenticeship and gained valuable experience working in elevated fine dining restaurant kitchens, including Binkley's Restaurant in Cave Creek, AZ, for the next 8 years. Driven and innovative with a passion for leadership and strategic thinking. Possesses a strong understanding of market analysis and business development, complemented by skills in project management and financial planning. Dedicated to creating impactful solutions and fostering growth. Experienced in business development, team leadership, and strategic planning. Utilizes innovative problem-solving and market analysis to drive company growth and success. Demonstrates a track record of building and leading cohesive teams, adapting to changing business landscapes, and delivering impactful results.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Founder, Owner, & Executive Chef

Chef Dev Catering, LLC
01.2020 - Current
  • Successfully launched and established a catering business from scratch, building a strong brand reputation and client base within the greater Denver area
  • Expanded the company's service offerings to include a wider range of menu options and event types, catering to diverse client needs and preferences
  • Successfully managed and executed large scale events, such as weddings, corporate galas, and fundraisers, showcasing the company's capabilities and professionalism
  • Established a clear timeline and monitoring systems to successfully manage project delivery within the agreed-upon time frame and budget
  • Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
  • Established a successful business by identifying market needs and developing innovative solutions.

Server & Manager

The Fifty/50 Group
01.2017 - 01.2020
  • Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and service standards to ensure consistency and quality in service delivery across all locations within the restaurant group
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.

Server

David Burke's Primehouse
08.2015 - 12.2017
  • Communicated professionally with customers, colleagues, and supervisors
  • Completed side work tasks such as rolling silverware, polishing glassware, or refilling condiments during downtime periods
  • Monitored dining area to anticipate customer needs, offering proactive service
  • Supported bussers with table-cleaning during high-volume shifts

Server

RPM Steak
07.2014 - 08.2015
  • Hired as one of the opening team members of Lettuce Entertain You's newest flagship restaurant in Chicago, IL
  • Explained details for new menu items and daily specials
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Took accurate food and drink orders from patrons utilizing POS system
  • Studied under a highly qualified sommelier team to expand my knowledge of wine, spirits, and beers
  • Conducted inventory checks, ensuring availability of supplies

Education

Associates - Culinary Arts

Arizona Culinary Institute
Scottsdale, AZ
01.2003

Chef's Apprenticeship Program -

Johnson County Community College
Overland Park, KS
01.2002

Music Education -

University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS
01.2000

Skills

  • Customer Service
  • Teamwork
  • Problem Solving
  • Attention to Detail
  • Positive Attitude
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic thinking
  • Marketing
  • Entrepreneurial and innovative
  • Ethics and integrity
  • Business planning
  • Goal setting

Accomplishments

  • Strong track record of leading teams to provide memorable experiences for clients.
  • Appeared in Art Culinaire Magazine (Issue 81, 2006, Binkley's Restaurant).
  • Expertise in front of the house restaurant management.

Languages

Spanish
Limited Working

Timeline

Founder, Owner, & Executive Chef

Chef Dev Catering, LLC
01.2020 - Current

Server & Manager

The Fifty/50 Group
01.2017 - 01.2020

Server

David Burke's Primehouse
08.2015 - 12.2017

Server

RPM Steak
07.2014 - 08.2015

Chef's Apprenticeship Program -

Johnson County Community College

Music Education -

University of Kansas

Associates - Culinary Arts

Arizona Culinary Institute
Devlin O'Connor