Felicia Suarez-Rogers
Gainesville,FL
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with a proven track record of success in high-volume hospitality operations, business development, and public relations. Demonstrated expertise in leadership, strategic planning, and customer service. Seeking opportunities to leverage a diverse amount of experience and skills to drive growth and success in a challenging environment. Encouraging manager and analytical problem-solver 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
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Managing Director
Meet Eat Play LLC Dba The Social At Midtown
08.2020 - Current
- Successfully led operations for $5 million/yr, a 25,000 square foot high-volume bar, restaurant, and event space adjacent to the University of Florida, overcoming unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Increased overall company performance by implementing strategic management initiatives and streamlining operations, saw 20% YOY top line growth.
- Optimized resource allocation for improved efficiency and profitability across all departments.
- Strengthened client relationships with regular communication, timely project delivery, and high-quality services.
- Expanded market presence through successful negotiation of key partnerships and acquisitions.
- Developed comprehensive business plans, outlining long-term goals and actionable steps toward success.
- Delivered consistent revenue growth by identifying new business opportunities and expanding service offerings.
- Fostered an inclusive work environment of over 100 hourly staff and 7 salaried managers by championing diversity initiatives and empowering employees at all levels.
- Launched innovative products/services that captured new market share while maintaining competitive pricing structures. Cultivated and solidified brand identity through strategic marketing initiatives, leading to a 30% increase in brand recognition and customer loyalty.
- Oversaw complex negotiations with suppliers/vendors for favorable contract terms that led to cost savings.
- Directed large-scale projects from inception to completion on time/budget with strict adherence to quality standards.
- Devised and implemented innovative marketing campaigns to promote products and services.
Director of Operations
Sodexo Campus Services
01.2018 - 07.2020
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to enhance operational performance and achieve targets.
- Oversaw daily operations across multiple departments, ensuring seamless coordination and efficient execution of tasks.
- Identified opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement, implementing changes that resulted in significant savings.
- Championed quality assurance efforts by establishing rigorous standards and monitoring adherence to maintain high levels of service delivery.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the organization by enforcing compliance with established regulations, policies, procedures, as well as conducting regular audit checks.
- Collaborated with senior management to develop and execute long-term corporate goals and objectives.
- Mentored and coached team members to foster productive and engaging work environment.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement through regular staff evaluations and performance reviews.
Corporate Communications Specialist
Alyeska Pipeline
01.2017 - 12.2017
- Enhanced company branding by developing and implementing strategic corporate communication plans.
- Established strong media relations for increased positive coverage through targeted outreach efforts.
- Spearheaded internal communications initiatives, resulting in improved employee engagement and satisfaction.
- Managed crisis communications, mitigating potential reputational damage through prompt and effective response strategies.
- Streamlined messaging consistency across all channels by creating comprehensive style guidelines.
- Implemented social media strategies that expanded online presence while maintaining a consistent brand voice across platforms.
- Monitored media coverage and produced detailed reports to analyze impact of PR efforts.
- Wrote press releases and other materials utilizing SEO practices.
Tourism Manager
Valdez Convention And Visitors Bureau
01.2016 - 12.2016
- Enhanced tourist experience by developing and implementing innovative tour programs and itineraries.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing personalized services to clients based on their preferences and needs.
- Managed daily operations of the tourism office, maintaining high levels of efficiency and organization.
- Developed strategic partnerships with local businesses to promote mutually beneficial tourism initiatives.
- Coordinated successful events and conferences, attracting visitors from various regions to boost local economy.
- Maintained strong relationships with stakeholders, ensuring open communication channels for seamless collaboration.
Area General Manager
Pig & A Jelly Jar
01.2015 - 12.2015
- Increased overall efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing standardized processes across multiple units.
- Enhanced employee satisfaction through the development of comprehensive training programs and performance evaluations.
- Improved customer experience across all locations by conducting regular audits, analyzing feedback, and addressing areas for improvement.
- Developed strong teams within each unit through effective recruitment, coaching, and mentoring efforts.
- Managed financial aspects of multiple units, ensuring optimal cost control and revenue generation strategies were in place.
- Reduced employee turnover rates by fostering a positive work environment that encouraged professional growth and development.
- Spearheaded regional expansion efforts, opening new locations on time and within budgetary constraints.
- Successfully managed budgets and allocated resources to maximize productivity and profitability.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Set aggressive targets for employees to drive company success and strengthen motivation.
Assistant Food Service Director
Meals On Wheels
07.2013 - 12.2014
- Improved customer satisfaction by implementing new menu options and presentation techniques.
- Assisted in budget management for optimal food service operations and cost reduction.
- Enhanced employee performance through regular training sessions and team-building exercises.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment by following established sanitation guidelines and procedures.
- Evaluated vendor contracts for competitive pricing and quality assurance, ensuring top-notch ingredients at the best value.
- Collaborated with chefs to create diverse menus that catered to various dietary needs and preferences of guests.
- Coordinated catering services for special events, providing exceptional food quality and presentation within budget constraints.
- Implemented health and safety protocols compliant with local regulations, maintaining a safe environment for both staff members and customers alike.
Director of Catering
Sodexo Campus Services
06.2011 - 06.2013
- Increased event bookings by developing and implementing creative marketing strategies for catering services.
- Enhanced client satisfaction with personalized event planning and exceptional attention to detail.
- Managed budget allocation, negotiating contracts with vendors for cost-effective catering solutions.
- Streamlined operations by implementing efficient processes in scheduling, staffing, and inventory management for catering events.
- Trained and supervised team members to deliver top-notch service during large-scale catering functions.
- Implemented innovative presentation techniques to showcase food offerings in an appealing manner, attracting new clients and increasing revenue.
- Participated in industry networking events and trade shows, establishing valuable connections within the local catering community and expanding business opportunities.
- Discussed client's event needs to develop recommendations for room options and possible menus.
- Coordinated with event planners for floor and table layouts, guest numbers and overall catering needs.
- Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
Catering Supervisor
Sodexo Campus Services
01.2009 - 06.2011
- Enhanced client satisfaction by providing exceptional catering services for various events, including corporate meetings and weddings.
- Streamlined catering operations by implementing efficient processes for food preparation, service, and cleanup.
- Managed a team of catering staff members, ensuring proper training and adherence to company standards for quality service.
- Increased repeat business with excellent customer service, addressing client concerns promptly and professionally.
- Coordinated event logistics with clients, venue managers, and other vendors to ensure seamless execution of catered events.
- Ensured timely setup and breakdown of event spaces while adhering to all safety protocols.
- Established an environment of respect among staff members by modeling professionalism in every aspect of our work together.
- Supervised catering staff at all functions, instructing employees to restock items quickly and to promote exemplary service to guests.
- Visited venues before events to assess kitchen facilities and make thorough labor and equipment plans.
- Analyzed catering orders and liaised with staff to set up equipment, supplies and menus to meet client expectations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA01.2011
Associate of Arts - Mass Communication
Miami Dade College
Homestead06.2007
Skills
- Leadership and Management
- Strategic Planning
- Operations Management
- Brand Development and Marketing
- Event Management and Catering
- Budgeting and Financial Management
- Vendor Relations and Purchasing
- Customer Service and Satisfaction
- Resource Utilization
- Trend modeling
- New Technology Integration
- Continuous Improvement
Overview
Exemplifying leadership qualities, confidence, teachability, and professionalism, I bring an extensive background in customer-oriented service operations and business development to drive success. With a keen focus on sales, marketing, promotions, and cost control, I excel in maintaining positive relations with staff, vendors and clients/customers in high-volume, fast-paced environments. My proven ability to handle business finances, prepare and manage budgets, and promptly resolve discrepancies underscores my commitment to excellence.
Timeline
Managing Director
Meet Eat Play LLC Dba The Social At Midtown
08.2020 - Current
Director of Operations
Sodexo Campus Services
01.2018 - 07.2020
Corporate Communications Specialist
Alyeska Pipeline
01.2017 - 12.2017
Tourism Manager
Valdez Convention And Visitors Bureau
01.2016 - 12.2016
Area General Manager
Pig & A Jelly Jar
01.2015 - 12.2015
Assistant Food Service Director
Meals On Wheels
07.2013 - 12.2014
Director of Catering
Sodexo Campus Services
06.2011 - 06.2013
Catering Supervisor
Sodexo Campus Services
01.2009 - 06.2011
Bachelor of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies
Liberty University
Associate of Arts - Mass Communication
Miami Dade College
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