Ilir (Leo) Zekaj
Brooklyn ,NY
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with a strong work ethic and exceptional customer service skills, honed at Joes Italian Restaurant. Proven ability to enhance guest engagement and satisfaction, while effectively managing high-volume dining environments. Recognized for improving service protocols and fostering team collaboration, ensuring seamless operations and memorable dining experiences.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager
Joes Italian Grill
06.2018 - 06.2025
- Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and mentoring team members.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
- Controlled costs to keep business operating within budget and increase profits.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
- Opened and closed location and monitored shift changes to uphold successful operations strategies and maximize business success.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Improved staffing during busy periods by creating employee schedules and monitoring call-outs.
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
Manager
Pastafina
11.2008 - 05.2018
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
Server
Joes Pizza and Pasta
09.2006 - 2008
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
Education
High School Diploma -
Shkolla E Mesme Teknike “Shaban Spahija”
Peje, KosovoSkills
- Strong work ethic
- Exceptional customer service
- Cash handling
- Guest engagement
- Customer service
- Safe food handling
- Menu memorization
- Food running
- High volume dining
- Service prioritization
- Performance improvement
- Table bussing
Timeline
Manager
Joes Italian Grill
06.2018 - 06.2025
Manager
Pastafina
11.2008 - 05.2018
Server
Joes Pizza and Pasta
09.2006 - 2008
High School Diploma -
Shkolla E Mesme Teknike “Shaban Spahija”