Dre Lofton
Austin,TX
Summary
Customer-obsessed management professional with talents for team building, leading and motivating, as well as excellent customer relations aptitude and relationship-building skills. Proficient in using independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated to applying training, monitoring and morale-building abilities to enhance employee engagement and boost performance.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Bartender/Corporate Trainer
Punch Bowl Social
Austin, TX
07.2022 - Current
- Oversaw all aspects of bar operations, including staff training and supervision, inventory management, ordering supplies, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
- Developed and executed marketing strategies to increase customer base and boost overall revenue, resulting in a 20% increase in sales within the first year.
- Implemented an effective employee performance evaluation system, leading to a motivated and productive team that consistently met and exceeded performance targets.
- Conducted regular staff training sessions to enhance product knowledge, customer service skills, and adherence to responsible alcohol service policies.
Flight Attendant & Corporate Trainer
JetBlue Airways
Boston, MA
10.2016 - 08.2022
- Developed and conducted comprehensive training programs for flight attendants, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, exceptional customer service, and compliance with airline policies and regulations.
- Led a team of flight attendants, providing ongoing guidance, coaching, and performance evaluations to maintain high standards of service delivery and passenger satisfaction.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance training modules, incorporating industry best practices, emerging trends, and innovative techniques to improve training effectiveness and outcomes.
- Conducted recurrent training sessions to refresh flight attendants on safety procedures, emergency protocols, and service standards, resulting in a well-prepared and confident team.
- Implemented and monitored key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate team performance and identify areas for improvement, resulting in a more efficient and effective flight attendant workforce.
- Acted as a liaison between flight attendants and management, addressing concerns, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive work environment conducive to productivity and job satisfaction.
FOH Manager
Bar Louie
Boston, MA
10.2017 - 08.2019
- Assisted in overseeing day-to-day operations of the front-of-house, including managing reservations, seating arrangements, and guest relations.
- Coordinated with the kitchen staff to ensure accurate and timely food delivery, minimizing guest wait times and optimizing overall dining experiences.
- Conducted staff training sessions on customer service standards, upselling techniques, and proper handling of guest inquiries and complaints.
- Assisted in managing inventory and supplies to maintain adequate stock levels for seamless restaurant operations.
- Conducted routine inspections of the dining area to ensure cleanliness, orderliness, and compliance with health and safety standards.
FOH Manager
Elkins Lake Country Club
Huntsville, TX
07.2015 - 10.2016
- Orchestrated the planning and execution of banquet events, including weddings, corporate functions, and private parties, ensuring seamless operations and exceptional guest experiences.
- Coordinated with event planners, vendors, and clients to understand event requirements and preferences, delivering events that exceeded client expectations and showcased the club's capabilities.
- Supervised a team of banquet staff, providing training, guidance, and feedback to maintain high service standards and enhance staff performance.
- Collaborated with the culinary team to design customized menus and ensure the highest quality of food and beverage service for each event.
- Conducted pre- and post-event meetings with staff to review event details, assignments, and areas for improvement, resulting in more efficient operations and enhanced guest satisfaction.
- Addressed guest inquiries, concerns, and complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to ensure a positive experience and promote guest loyalty.
First Assistant Store Manager
Maurices
Huntsville, TX
07.2014 - 10.2016
- Led a team of sales associates, providing training, coaching, and guidance to achieve and exceed sales targets consistently.
- Implemented sales strategies and incentive programs, resulting in a 30% increase in monthly sales within the first year.
- Conducted performance reviews and set goals for the sales team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
- Developed strong relationships with customers, resolving issues and concerns promptly to ensure exceptional service and repeat business.
- Implemented visual merchandising standards to enhance product visibility and customer engagement, leading to increased sales and higher average transaction values.
Assistant Store Manager
Rainbow Shops
Lufkin, TX
06.2013 - 07.2014
- Assisted in managing daily store operations, including staff scheduling, inventory management, and customer service.
- Supported the Retail Sales Manager in implementing effective sales strategies, resulting in improved sales performance and customer satisfaction.
- Conducted sales training for new hires and ongoing coaching for existing team members to improve product knowledge and sales techniques.
- Collaborated with the marketing team to execute promotional events, sales campaigns, and product launches, driving foot traffic and boosting sales.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Human Resources Management
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX05.2016
Skills
- Leadership and Team Management
- Strategic Planning & Decision Making
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Time Management & Prioritization
- Financial Management
- Conflict Resolution and Mediation
- Networking and Relationship Building
- Training and Development
- Adaptability and Flexibility
Timeline
Lead Bartender/Corporate Trainer
Punch Bowl Social
07.2022 - Current
FOH Manager
Bar Louie
10.2017 - 08.2019
Flight Attendant & Corporate Trainer
JetBlue Airways
10.2016 - 08.2022
FOH Manager
Elkins Lake Country Club
07.2015 - 10.2016
First Assistant Store Manager
Maurices
07.2014 - 10.2016
Assistant Store Manager
Rainbow Shops
06.2013 - 07.2014
Bachelor of Science - Human Resources Management
Sam Houston State University