Gavin Cowan
Santa Cruz,CA
Summary
Talented wine guy exceeding demanding guest expectations and business targets. Successful at developing strong business reputations built on knowledgeable and professional service. Performance-oriented and driven to continuously increase customer base and revenue. However at the end of service, customer satisfaction and seeing guests leave with an experience like no other is always the goal.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Server/General FOH
La Posta
Santa Cruz
05.2023 - Current
- La Posta delivers high end experiences, focusing on authentic Italian dishes crafted from farm to table premium ingredients and complemented by an impressive wine list.
- Expertise in menu items and wine pairings with knowledge of ingredients, preparation, and presentation. Managed large cover tables while upholding fine dining etiquette and high service standards. Trained and mentored new servers on service protocols, menu knowledge, and customer engagement. Trusted with EOD financial reporting, cash-outs, and wine stock management, consistently maintaining 100% accuracy
- Assisted in training new servers on menu items and service standards.
Event Coordinator Server
Private Events
Santa Cruz
- Multiple Kitchens and Teams ranging from multiple coursed Fine Dining Oaxacan cuisine for private birthdays, to large events for weddings focused on volume. Curating menus, wine, spirit pairings
Construction Worker
Jacob Brothers
Santa Cruz, CA
03.2025 - Current
- Operated heavy machinery to assist in site preparation and material transport.
- Followed safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment for all team members.
- Collaborated with team members to complete projects on schedule and within specifications.
- Assisted in installing structures such as walls, roofs, and flooring systems using various tools.
- Monitored inventory of materials and tools to support uninterrupted workflow on job sites.
- Implemented improved techniques for waste reduction during project execution, enhancing overall efficiency.
- Loaded, unloaded, and moved material to and from storage and production areas.
- Worked independently in fast-paced environment while meeting productivity and quality expectations.
Server
Great-Full Gardens
Reno, NV
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Great-Full Gardens is a health orientated eatery known for its diverse menu and commitment to service, particularly during its popular breakfast and lunch hours with 300+ covers.
- Managed front-of-house operations, including bar service, A.M. Barista duties, handling multiple tables, and maintaining stock levels.
Server
Knotty Barrel
San Diego
12.2021 - 08.2022
- Upscale gastropub with gourmet cuisine, 30+ rotating craft beers, and full-service bar with craft cocktails.
- Delivered knowledgeable and friendly service in a fast-paced, high-volume gastropub setting.
- Handled POS transactions, cash handling, and table management with efficiency and accuracy.
- Resolved guest concerns promptly to ensure satisfaction and build repeat clientele, and promoted daily specials and upsold premium menu items and beverages
Education
Associate of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Cabrillo College
Santa Cruz04-2026
Skills
- Event planning
- Project management
- Scheduling
- Time management
- Wine tasting expertise
- Wine service management
- Guest relations
- Staff training and development
- Wine tasting events
- Wine list management
- Exceptional customer service
Accomplishments
I have spent time in Italy, further deepening my understanding of Italian wine. Staging in 10+ restaurant's, and always wanting to learn more to perfect my craft.
Certification
WSET Level 1; Alcohol Awareness; Food Handlers
Timeline
Construction Worker
Jacob Brothers
03.2025 - Current
Server/General FOH
La Posta
05.2023 - Current
Server
Great-Full Gardens
08.2022 - 05.2023
Server
Knotty Barrel
12.2021 - 08.2022
Event Coordinator Server
Private Events
Associate of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Cabrillo College
CERTIFICATIONS, SKILLS & TECHNOLOGIES
- Skills: Data Analysis; CAD Software; Optimization
- Technologies: Toast; Square; Open table