GIANNINA OTETO
New York City
Summary
A Kenyan refugee successfully transitioned to New York, leveraging a unique background in modeling and extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Passionate about delivering exceptional service and committed to continuous personal and professional growth, thriving in fast-paced environments. Detail-oriented and a fast learner, equipped with a diverse skill set that enhances team performance and customer satisfaction. Proficient in industry-standard tools such as OpenTable and Resy, ready to contribute effectively to any team.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Hostess
Coqodaq
12.2024 - Current
- Coordinated seating arrangements to optimize guest flow and enhance dining experience.
- Managed reservations system to ensure timely seating and minimize wait times for guests.
- Developed strategies to improve guest satisfaction through personalized service and attention to detail.
- Greeted customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience.
Model
Elite Model Management Inc
07.2023 - Current
- Developed strong relationships with clients and brands to enhance collaboration opportunities.
- Collaborated with stylists and photographers to create visually compelling campaigns.
- Adapted quickly to changing environments for continued professionalism under pressure.
- Promoted products and services by posing for commercials, live shows, and photo shoots.
Maitre'd
Roxy Hotel
02.2024 - 12.2024
- Oversaw front-of-house operations to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
- Coordinated reservations and seating arrangements for optimal flow.
- Served as leader of FOH team by assigning duties, work stations and responsibilities.
- Greeted customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience.
Maitre'd
The Nines NYC
04.2022 - 05.2024
- Resolved guest concerns promptly to maintain high service standards.
- Managed guest reservations and seating arrangements to optimize customer flow.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the entrance and waiting areas.
- Monitored dining room activity, adjusting seating plans as needed for efficiency.
Lead hostess / Maitre'd
Red Rooster Harlem
04.2021 - 06.2022
- Managed front-of-house operations, ensuring seamless guest experiences and optimal seating arrangements.
- Managed guest seating arrangements to optimize flow and enhance dining experience.
- Coordinated reservations and waitlists using advanced booking systems to ensure seamless operations.
Hostess
STK Steakhouse
02.2020 - 12.2020
- I worked at the restaurant as a hostess, pre-pandemic and post-pandemic. Making sure customers were well informed of the new policies due to Covid.
- Greeted and seated guests, ensuring an exceptional first impression.
- Greeted and seated guests, ensuring timely service and positive dining experiences.
Sales Associate
Hollister
12.2018 - 12.2019
- Delivered exceptional customer service, fostering positive shopping experiences and building loyalty.
- Managed inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock availability and organization on sales floor.
- Assisted in visual merchandising, aligning displays with brand standards to enhance product visibility.
Cocktail Waitress
Omar's La Ranita
10.2017 - 10.2019
- Delivered exceptional service by taking and processing drink orders efficiently.
- Managed multiple tables simultaneously while maintaining high customer satisfaction levels.
- Managed multiple orders simultaneously, ensuring accurate and prompt delivery of beverages to guests.
Hostess
Grey Lady
06.2014 - 11.2016
- Greeted and seated guests, ensuring an exceptional first impression.
- Managed reservation system, optimizing table turnover and guest flow.
- Developed seating charts to maximize occupancy during peak hours.
- Greeted customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience.
Education
High School Diploma -
Catholic Central High School
Grand Rapids, MI05-2012
Skills
- Problem Solving
- Ability to Work Under Pressure
- Ability to Multitask
- Teamwork
- Fast Learner
- Customer Service
- Communication Skills
- Active Listening
- Customer service
LANGUAGES
English
Swahili
Luo
Kikuyu; Gikuyu
Timeline
Lead Hostess
Coqodaq
12.2024 - Current
Maitre'd
Roxy Hotel
02.2024 - 12.2024
Model
Elite Model Management Inc
07.2023 - Current
Maitre'd
The Nines NYC
04.2022 - 05.2024
Lead hostess / Maitre'd
Red Rooster Harlem
04.2021 - 06.2022
Hostess
STK Steakhouse
02.2020 - 12.2020
Sales Associate
Hollister
12.2018 - 12.2019
Cocktail Waitress
Omar's La Ranita
10.2017 - 10.2019
Hostess
Grey Lady
06.2014 - 11.2016
High School Diploma -
Catholic Central High School
HOBBIES
Cooking, running, yoga, basketball, lacrosse, poetry, traveling
Model Work
- January 2016 — Present
- Throughout my seven year career I have been blessed to work with some amazing clients in such a wonderful industry. Some of these clients include L'Oréal , MAC Cosmetics, Bobbi Brown, NARS Cosmetics, Lancôme, Kanye West Brands, Childish Gambino Album Cover, Elle and Marie Claire South Africa Magazines, Wonderland Magazine, Flaunt Magazine, Nylon Magazine, and other brands from big and small.
- I have been blessed to work with many different clients who have taught me so many skills that I make sure to apply in my everyday life.