Gretchen Backhaus
Wisconsin Dells,WI
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
FOH Manager/Operator
High Rock Cafe
06.2025 - 02.2026
- Supervised daily operations to ensure exceptional customer service and adherence to standards.
- Trained and mentored staff on operational procedures and service excellence.
- Implemented initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline workflows.
- Managed reservations, seating arrangements, and dining experiences for optimal guest enjoyment.
General Manager/Operator
Sunset Harbor Bar & Grill
05.2023 - 05.2025
- Assumed managerial role to restore organization, accountability, and consistency.
- Managed all aspects of daily operations, including managing budgets, payroll reporting, staffing, scheduling, bar inventory, and restocking supplies, merchandise, spirits, beer, and wine while working bartending shifts.
- Updated and structured POS system to improve overall efficiency.
- Designed promotional content and graphics for in-house and online use.
- Created and organized food and beverage specials, events, game nights and live music events.
- Transformed interior of bar and restaurant to enhance ambiance and optimize traffic flow.
Senior Bartender/Server
DelBar
05.2012 - 06.2023
- Performed opening and closing duties, setting up and prepping inventory for incoming shift.
- Trained new bartenders on drink recipes, mixing techniques, and customer service skills to enhance overall performance.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Adhered to strict standards throughout all aspects of bar operations.
Server Supervisor/Bartender
High Rock Cafe
06.2012 - 06.2021
- Trained new servers on company policies, procedures, and best practices for exceptional guest service.
- Successfully resolved customer complaints, ensuring repeat business and positive dining experiences.
- Contributed to increased sales with upselling techniques, effective menu presentation, and knowledge of specials.
- Created and maintained an allergy spreadsheet of the restaurant menu to inform available modifications to accommodate restricted diets.
- Oversaw shift duties and financial reports of fellow servers and bartenders.
Server
Wilderness Resort
06.2012 - 08.2014
Bartender/Server
The Portside Seafood Restaurant
10.2008 - 04.2012
Bartender/Server/Cook
Gilly's Island
05.2010 - 10.2011
Supervisor/Server
Sapphires Mongolian Buffet
12.2006 - 09.2008
Bartender
Coach House Restaurant & Lounge
07.2005 - 11.2006
Bartender/Server/Hostess/Trainer
TGI Fridays
03.2002 - 06.2005
Bartender/Server/Hostess/Dishwasher
Splash Bar & Grill
09.1997 - 09.2001
Education
Studied - Psychology
University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
La Crosse, WIAssociate of Arts -
University of Wisconsin Baraboo/Sauk
Baraboo, WI05-2000
Skills
- Outstanding customer service
- Anticipating guest needs
- Professional service standards
- Strong multitasking skills
- Classic and craft cocktails
- Cocktail list development
- Operations management
- Staff training and management
- Knowledge of multiple POS systems
- Problem resolution
- Sales promotion
Timeline
FOH Manager/Operator
High Rock Cafe
06.2025 - 02.2026
General Manager/Operator
Sunset Harbor Bar & Grill
05.2023 - 05.2025
Server Supervisor/Bartender
High Rock Cafe
06.2012 - 06.2021
Server
Wilderness Resort
06.2012 - 08.2014
Senior Bartender/Server
DelBar
05.2012 - 06.2023
Bartender/Server/Cook
Gilly's Island
05.2010 - 10.2011
Bartender/Server
The Portside Seafood Restaurant
10.2008 - 04.2012
Supervisor/Server
Sapphires Mongolian Buffet
12.2006 - 09.2008
Bartender
Coach House Restaurant & Lounge
07.2005 - 11.2006
Bartender/Server/Hostess/Trainer
TGI Fridays
03.2002 - 06.2005
Bartender/Server/Hostess/Dishwasher
Splash Bar & Grill
09.1997 - 09.2001
Studied - Psychology
University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Associate of Arts -
University of Wisconsin Baraboo/Sauk