Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Timeline
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James Kerr

Brooklyn,NY

Summary

I am a dynamic professional with a proven track record in enhancing operational efficiency and elevating service standards within the hospitality industry. At Drink PLG, I spearheaded innovative promotional strategies and leveraged an extensive wine and spirits knowledge to significantly boost customer engagement. I'm skilled in Google Suite and POS systems, adept at fostering professional relationships and managing bar/retail operations. Additionally, I demonstrated exceptional leadership and brand promotion capabilities by setting up and running out of office tasting events at local bars and restaurants.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Retail Manager and Spirits Buyer

Drink PLG
02.2023 - Current
  • Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences to drive sales.
  • Strengthened merchandising and promotional strategies to drive customer engagement and boost sales through social media marketing.
  • Conducted product demonstrations, tastings, and off-premise events to highlight features, engage customers, and redirect objections or pre-conceived notions to positive aspects.
  • Built lasting relationships with distributors, bar managers, brand ambassadors and other wine & spirits professionals throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan.
  • Controlled store inventory and reviewed cash handling and operations reports.
  • Used apps such as Google Suite, Shopify, and Stocky to locate/manage inventory, submit invoices, and ship special orders for customers.
  • Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
  • Delivered energetic responses to customers in-store and by telephone, going above and beyond to serve needs.

Head Bartender

Bluebird
07.2020 - 12.2022
  • Kept detailed inventories and notified management of ordering needs for liquor, beer, wine and bar supplies.
  • Mentored team members and coached on procedures and productivity strategies.
  • Organized bar inventory and storage procedures to keep stock within optimal levels and meet expected customer demands.
  • Managed bar at special events, leading team in providing coordinated service for weddings, business meetings and social gatherings.

Bartender

The Farm On Adderley
04.2021 - 07.2021
    • Set up glassware, liquor and other necessary supplies for special events.
    • Followed strict recipes and drink measurements to minimize product used.
    • Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.

Event Coordinator

Ithaca College
03.2016 - 08.2017
    • Managed administrative logistics of events planning, event booking and event promotions.
    • Brainstormed and implemented creative event concepts and themes.
    • Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
    • Inspected event facilities to confirm conformance to customer requirements.
    • Consulted with customers to determine objectives and requirements for events.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Acting

Ithaca College
Ithaca, NY
05.2017

Skills

  • On and Off premise sales expertise
  • Distributor management and relationship building
  • Implementation of date driven sales techniques
  • Excellent communication
  • Ability to Lift 30 Pounds
  • POS system experience (Toast, Square, Provi, Shopify)
  • Google Suite
  • Brand Promotion event experience
  • Extensive wine and spirits knowledge
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Multitasking and Time Management skills

Certification

NYC Food Handlers Certificate

References

Bobby Teed (Currently at: Ruth on Flatbush) 

I worked with them at Bluebird

(516) 353-7070

RmTeed@gmail.com


Liam Weitz (Currently at: Deux Chats)

 I worked with them at Farm on Adderley

(347) 307-2114

liamo.weitz4@gmail.com


Chris Ortiz (Currently at: General Manager, DRINK PLG) 

I worked with them at DRINK PLG

(646) 522-7856

chris@drinkplg.com

Timeline

Retail Manager and Spirits Buyer

Drink PLG
02.2023 - Current

Bartender

The Farm On Adderley
04.2021 - 07.2021

Head Bartender

Bluebird
07.2020 - 12.2022

Event Coordinator

Ithaca College
03.2016 - 08.2017

NYC Food Handlers Certificate

Bachelor of Arts - Acting

Ithaca College
James Kerr