Elton Gjonaj
Honolulu,HI
Summary
Experienced food and beverage leader with expertise in 5-star resort operations, demonstrating strong leadership, planning, and organizational skills. Committed to maximizing profits through effective cost controls and innovative promotional strategies. Proficient in team building and training, with a solid background in delivering exceptional customer service.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager/Head Sommelier
Kahala Resort
Honolulu, HI
10.2022 - 07.2024
- Developed and implemented SOPs to optimize efficiency and guest satisfaction. This was balanced with collaborating with the executive chef to develop innovative menus, overseeing operations of The Veranda and Hoku’s fine dining restaurant, beverage program, and lounge area, including afternoon tea service, all while ensuring exceptional and memorable customer service.
- Managed all aspects of the wine program as the resort sommelier, including wine selection, purchasing, storage, service, organizing wine-related events/promotions, and staff/guest education. I achieved the honorship budget on beverage sales while decreasing beverage costs.
- Maintain a strong focus on delivering exceptional customer service, handling guest inquiries, feedback, and complaints promptly and professionally. Through this, I received the highest secret shopper score the resort has ever seen.
- Recruit, train, and supervise restaurant and lounge staff, scheduling effectively to meet operational needs while controlling labor costs with recently having a 99% accuracy rate.
Owner
Cotton Bar
Florence, Italia
04.2020 - 05.2022
- Supervised performance of workers with goals of improving productivity, efficiency and cost savings.
- Promoted business on social media platforms to maximize brand identity and generate revenue.
- Negotiated with vendors to gain optimal pricing on products resulting in substantial increase in profit margin.
Bar Manager
Aqua Dining
Sydney,, Australia
09.2019 - 04.2020
- Resolved problems or concerns to satisfaction of involved parties.
- Increased revenue by promoting additional products and assisting with beverage menu.
- Interviewed, hired and trained staff to improve customer retention and bolster sales.
Server
Armani Restaurant
New York, NY
09.2018 - 02.2019
- Greeted customers, answered questions and recommended specials to increase profits.
- Developed rapport with guests and assisted in generating repeat business by providing exceptional customer service.
- Communicated with hosts, bussers and kitchen staff to prepare for and serve customers.
- Provided exceptional service to high volume of daily customers.
Restaurant Manager
American Diner 1950
Florence, Italia
02.2013 - 09.2018
- Scheduled and directed staff in daily work assignments to maximize productivity.
- Updated computer systems with new pricing and daily food specials.
- Managed accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll.
- Prepared employee schedules to maintain appropriate staffing levels during peak periods.
- Resolved problems or concerns to satisfaction of involved parties.
Skills
- Relationship Building
- P&L Management
- Problem-Solving
- Team Leadership
- Italian and Spanish language
- Schedule Management
Accomplishments
- Certified Level 3 Sommelier
Timeline
General Manager/Head Sommelier
Kahala Resort
10.2022 - 07.2024
Owner
Cotton Bar
04.2020 - 05.2022
Bar Manager
Aqua Dining
09.2019 - 04.2020
Server
Armani Restaurant
09.2018 - 02.2019
Restaurant Manager
American Diner 1950
02.2013 - 09.2018
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