Donovan Robertson
Bradenton,FL
Summary
Experienced Bar and Hospitality Leader with nearly a decade of success in high-volume operations, team development, and revenue-driving strategies. Proven ability to scale systems across multiple venues, lead high-performing teams, and deliver consistent guest satisfaction. From expanding bar capacity to running multimillion-dollar liquor programs, I bring hands-on leadership, creative problem-solving, and a people-first mindset. I thrive in fast-paced environments and love building work cultures that keep both teams and guests coming back.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender → Bar Manager / Assistant GM (Hybrid Role)
Ugly Grouper Bar and Grille
Anna Maria Island, FL
03.2016 - 11.2024
- Designed and launched a full-service FOH training program that became a blueprint for 10 affiliated venues, streamlining onboarding and operations
- Developed signature cocktail recipes and collaborated on full menu creation, including visual layout and design enhancements
- Expanded bar seating capacity from 10 to 40+, driving consistent year-over-year revenue growth — even during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Managed social media strategy and guest relations, contributing to increased brand awareness and local engagement
- Booked live entertainment and launched rotating music schedules that boosted weekend traffic and enhanced guest experience
- Hired, trained, and managed FOH staff; fostered a strong team culture with low turnover and high performance
- Resolved team and customer issues with professionalism, maintaining morale and service quality in a high-pressure environment
- Implemented two POS systems, managing installation, troubleshooting, and full staff training
- Led weekly tip distribution and collaborated with ownership on payroll compliance
- Analyzed and presented weekly sales and cost reports, supporting data-driven staffing and inventory decisions
- Ran dual inventory systems with a 97% accuracy rate, reducing waste and boosting bar profit margins
- Oversaw bar and service well alcohol sales averaging $150K–$180K/week during peak periods
- Participated in bar and restaurant renovations, contributing to layout design and functional upgrades
Bar Manager / FOH Manager
RJ Gators
Bradenton, FL
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Developed and maintained weekly FOH staff schedules for an 18-person team, optimizing labor efficiency and shift coverage
- Promoted from Server to FOH Manager based on performance in suggestive selling, attention to detail, and team collaboration
- Executed all opening and closing procedures, including cash reconciliation, shift transitions, and daily inventory management
- Supervised recruitment, onboarding, and training of new hires, resulting in a highly rated service team with consistent guest praise
- Enforced food safety and sanitation protocols, maintaining full compliance with health code standards
- Designed and implemented a bar loss prevention program and random pour testing initiative, cutting liquor waste by 25% and improving drink consistency
- Frequently praised on social media reviews for both service and leadership by guests and team members
Server → Bar Manager
Gulf Drive Cafe and Kokonut Hut
Anna Maria Island, FL
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Operated in one of the area’s highest-volume beachfront restaurants, maintaining speed and service quality under peak pressure
- Created and maintained FOH staff schedules, optimizing shift coverage and minimizing labor inefficiencies
- Oversaw daily opening and closing operations, including cash handling, prep coordination, and end-of-day reporting
- Recruited, trained, and supervised FOH staff, building a reliable and service-focused team
- Enforced food safety and cleanliness protocols, maintaining a spotless record during health inspections
- Managed guest complaints and team concerns with professionalism, contributing to high guest satisfaction and strong team morale
Education
Diploma - undefined
Braden River High
01.2008
Skills
- Sales
- POS integration
- Project management
- Leadership
- Talent development and scouting
- Excellent attention to detail
- Fast learner and great researcher
- Self starter
- Strong multitasking
- Customer service
- Highly reliable
- Team player attitude
Timeline
Bartender → Bar Manager / Assistant GM (Hybrid Role)
Ugly Grouper Bar and Grille
03.2016 - 11.2024
Bar Manager / FOH Manager
RJ Gators
01.2015 - 01.2017
Server → Bar Manager
Gulf Drive Cafe and Kokonut Hut
01.2015 - 01.2017
Diploma - undefined
Braden River High