JENNIFER RIVERA
Hospitality Professional
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
Dynamic professional with over 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry and management, specializing in training and development. Proven track record of fostering team collaboration and driving exceptional results, with strong adaptability to evolving business needs. Expertise in curriculum development, performance evaluation, and enhancing operational efficiency provides a solid foundation for impactful leadership. Recognized for exceptional communication skills and a strategic approach to problem-solving, consistently delivering value to teams and organizations.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Restaurant General Manager
Pura Vida Miami
07.2023 - Current
- Managed all aspects of daily operations, including managing budgets, inventory control, and vendor relations.
- Effectively managed labor costs by monitoring productivity levels among staff members and making strategic scheduling decisions.
- Ensured compliance with all health department regulations as well as company policies and procedures.
- Successfully trained over 15 managers in multiple locations and markets to company standards ensuring each was provided with all tools required for the role.
Supervisor
The SoSo
04.2022 - 04.2023
- Trained, mentored and supervised 20 newly hired employees on operating equipment and safety and developed training manual to use for reference.
- Supervised daily cash handling procedures, ensuring accurate accounting records and minimizing discrepancies.
Bar Manager
The Pelican Cafe
05.2020 - 06.2022
- Strategized plans to increase bar revenue through innovative promotional concepts, specialty drinks, and customer-focused events.
- Ensured compliance with all health and safety regulations by maintaining a clean workspace and enforcing strict sanitation practices.
- Managed cash handling procedures including daily reconciliation reports, bank deposits, and accurate record-keeping practices for financial accountability.
Server Supervisor
Marriott
05.2016 - 03.2020
- Set and enforced performance and service standards to keep consistent, high-quality environment devoted to customer satisfaction
- Created and oversaw training to educate employees on restaurant practices, proper serving etiquette, and procedures to maximize job satisfaction and productivity
- Assigned work tasks and coordinated activities of dining room personnel to deliver prompt, courteous service to patrons
- Scheduled reservations and managed seating arrangements in popular 200-seat contemporary seaside view restaurant
- Collaborated with Banquet and Food & Beverage Directors to coordinate over 30 hotel events.
Server Trainer
Darden Restaurants- Longhorn Steakhouse
01.2011 - 04.2015
- Set and enforced performance and service standards to keep consistent, high-quality environment devoted to customer satisfaction
- Trained new team members on restaurant procedures, menu items and performance strategies in the following positions: hostess, server, and bartender
- As an Expeditor: Executed and supervised plate preparation according to company standards
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL08-2016
Skills
Inventory management
Labor management
Staff scheduling
Customer engagement
Food safety
Certification
Manager ServSafe Certification: Food Handling
Additional Experience
- The Beacon, Lessing's Hospitality- Pastry Cook 09/2022-05/2023
- Honda Classic, A+ Staffing- Bartender Seasonal - 2020
- SunFest, SunFest of the Palm Beaches- Bar Supervisor 2012-2019
- Charley's Crab, Palm Beach- Lead Bartender Seasonal 2015 - 2016
References
Kristen Knowles - Director of Operations - (954) 205-3758
AnnMarie Minervini- F&B Manager- (561) 762-9088
Deborah Mayer- Co-Worker/Personal - (561) 532-7717
Timeline
Restaurant General Manager
Pura Vida Miami
07.2023 - Current
Manager ServSafe Certification: Food Handling
05-2022
Supervisor
The SoSo
04.2022 - 04.2023
Bar Manager
The Pelican Cafe
05.2020 - 06.2022
Server Supervisor
Marriott
05.2016 - 03.2020
Server Trainer
Darden Restaurants- Longhorn Steakhouse
01.2011 - 04.2015
Bachelor of Arts - English
Florida Atlantic University