Gina M. Otos
Torrance,CA
Summary
Dedicated and dynamic food and beverage professional with a proven track record in leading premium catering operations and enhancing guest experiences. Expert in managing large-scale events and intimate gourmet dining, with a strong focus on operational excellence, team leadership, and customer loyalty. Brings a passion for hospitality and a commitment to achieving the highest standards in service and quality.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Hospitality and Operations Supervisor
Sheppard Mullin
Costa Mesa, CA
12.2024 - Current
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.
- Trained and mentored staff on operational procedures and best practices.
- Maintained open lines of communication with upper management to provide regular updates on operational progress and challenges faced by the team.
- Reduced employee turnover by fostering a positive work environment and addressing employee concerns promptly.
- Achieved cost savings through diligent budget management and negotiation with vendors on pricing and contracts.
Director of Catering Operations
Sodexo, Sheppard Mullin
Costa Mesa, CA
10.2023 - 12.2025
- Coordinate all catering for large law firm, including daily meetings, cocktail hours, dinners and special events.
- Update and elevate corporate catering.
- Maintain stock of food and beverage products.
- Schedule and obtain extra staff when necessary.
- Cultivated relationships with vendors to secure high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
- Directed team training initiatives, improving staff performance and customer service standards.
- Developed comprehensive event proposals tailored to meet diverse client needs and budgets.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement and teamwork in delivering exceptional service to clients.
- Streamlined operations by implementing efficient processes in scheduling, staffing, and inventory management for catering events.
- Coordinated logistics of off-premise events, including transportation arrangements for catering equipment and staff members to ensure seamless execution at the venue site.
- Participated in industry networking events and trade shows, establishing valuable connections within the local catering community and expanding business opportunities.
Dining Room Server
The Kensington
Redondo Beach, CA
01.2021 - 12.2024
- Provided compassionate and high-quality service in an assisted living facility, adapting services to meet diverse resident needs.
Catering Server
Argyle Staffing
Los Angeles, CA
01.2019 - 12.2024
- Demonstrated versatility and commitment to excellence across multiple catering roles, enhancing event success and guest satisfaction.
Premium Catering Supervisor
Levy Restaurants, The Kia Forum
Inglewood, CA
01.2022 - 12.2023
- Lead premium catering operations, collaborating with executive chefs and F&B directors to drive service excellence.
- Manage staff scheduling and training, ensuring readiness for a variety of events while promoting a positive work environment.
- Implement operational improvements, contributing to enhanced guest satisfaction and financial performance.
Premium Catering Server
Delaware North, The Kia Forum
Inglewood, CA
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Delivered exceptional service in premium catering settings, from setup to guest interaction, ensuring memorable dining experiences.
- Worked closely with culinary teams to maintain high standards of food presentation and service.
Education
Graduate - undefined
Torrance High School
Torrance, CAGraduate - undefined
Pacific Bartending School
Torrance, CASkills
- Leadership in Food & Beverage Operations Successfully managed premium catering operations at Levy Restaurants, overseeing staff scheduling, event preparation, and service standards to ensure exceptional guest experiences
- Event Management Excellence: Demonstrated expertise in orchestrating high-profile events, ensuring seamless execution and high guest satisfaction Spearheaded season planning and event readiness, resulting in repeat business and enhanced partner relations
- Guest Service & Relationship Building: Excelled in building lasting relationships with customers, suite holders, and team members, fostering a culture of excellence and loyalty Recognized for resolving guest complaints efficiently, maintaining a positive brand image
- Operational Improvements & Training: Implemented staff training and development programs, improving service delivery and operational efficiency Played a key role in event logistics, partnering with culinary teams to elevate dining experiences
- Certifications: ETIPS certified, ServSafe Certified, highlighting a strong commitment to safe and responsible alcohol service and food safety standards
- Operations management
- Staff supervision
- Project planning
- Team leadership
Certification
- ETIPS Certified
- ServSafe Certified
Professional Development
Continuous learning and development in food and beverage service excellence, guest relations, and event management.
Timeline
Hospitality and Operations Supervisor
Sheppard Mullin
12.2024 - Current
Director of Catering Operations
Sodexo, Sheppard Mullin
10.2023 - 12.2025
Premium Catering Supervisor
Levy Restaurants, The Kia Forum
01.2022 - 12.2023
Dining Room Server
The Kensington
01.2021 - 12.2024
Catering Server
Argyle Staffing
01.2019 - 12.2024
Premium Catering Server
Delaware North, The Kia Forum
01.2019 - 01.2022
Graduate - undefined
Torrance High School
Graduate - undefined
Pacific Bartending School