Gala Gustafson
West Des Moines,IA
Summary
Well-rounded candidate with a passion for providing exceptional customer service. Possesses strong organizational and time management skills, and a thorough understanding of all food and beverage menus. Able to work efficiently in fast- paced environments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Server
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collections by Hilton
Des Moines , IA
04.2025 - Current
- Collected payment for food and drinks served, balanced cash receipts and maintained accurate cash drawer.
- Maintained order efficiency and accuracy through clear communication with kitchen staff, earning numerous recommendations from satisfied customers.
- Strategically timed check-ins with customers to take orders and confirm satisfaction with meals after delivery, taking action to correct any problems.
- Answered customers' questions, recommended items, and recorded order information.
- Oversaw daily operations of service team, delegated tasks, and trained new staff.
- Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
- Handled customer complaints professionally, resolving issues through diplomatic acknowledgment and commitment to service.
- Maintained clean and organized dining area to create pleasant and welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Banquet Manager
WAKONDA CLUB
04.2022 - Current
- Consulted with banquet sales directors and head chefs
- Plan the venue layout depending on the number of guests and the event
- Supervise the placement of tables, chairs, table settings, and serving stations to make sure they are placed properly
Server/bartender
Hyperion Field Club
05.2022 - 01.2023
- Assisted with training of new staff members
- Informed kitchen of special dietary needs or requests, delivering personalized meal options
- Encouraged guests to buy additional items such as appetizers, drinks, and desserts
- Attended company and restaurant required trainings and meetings, improving skills
- Monitored food and beverage levels to satisfy customer needs
- Resolved customer complaints and inquiries in a timely manner.
Bartender
Des Moines Country Club and Golf
09.2020 - 05.2022
- Perform open and closing duties independently
- Provides excellent customer service to all members
- Kept bar organized and clean during busy hours
- Mixed and served alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to established recipes
- Developed strong working relationships with customers and staff
- Assessed bar inventory and completed requisition sheets to restock supplies
- Trained and mentored new team members in proper bar operations.
Education
None - Health in Science
Kaplan University
Urbandale, IASkills
- Staff Leadership
- Staff Training
- Client Relationships
- Delegating Assignments and Tasks
Timeline
Lead Server
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collections by Hilton
04.2025 - Current
Server/bartender
Hyperion Field Club
05.2022 - 01.2023
Banquet Manager
WAKONDA CLUB
04.2022 - Current
Bartender
Des Moines Country Club and Golf
09.2020 - 05.2022
None - Health in Science
Kaplan University