Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Jesse Baughman

San Leandro,CA

Summary

Experienced hospitality professional with over 13 years in the food and beverage industry, including 6+ years as an owner/operator of two successful locations. Proven expertise in bar and restaurant management, consulting, and operations, with a track record of increasing sales and reducing costs. Skilled in launching new venues and optimizing performance across a diverse range of establishments, from dive bars to Michelin Star restaurants.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

Food and Beverage Consultant

Independent Consultant
San Francisco, CA
03.2025 - Current
  • Develop customized strategies to increase revenue and reduce costs for a range of bar and restaurant clients.
  • Set up service standards, food and beverage programs, inventory systems, and staffing plans for new openings.
  • Provide hands-on training and operational support to enhance team performance and customer experience.

Owner / Managing Partner

Vino Locale
Palo Alto, CA
10.2020 - 01.2025
  • Managed all facets of daily operations, including staffing, customer service, and financial oversight.
  • Drove business growth through strategic planning, resulting in increased profitability and market presence.
  • Led a team of 14, delivering training and performance support to foster high productivity.
  • Analyzed market and competitor data to guide innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Implemented training and development programs to boost staff capabilities and guest satisfaction.

Owner / Managing Partner

Beta Lounge
Berkeley, CA
11.2018 - 01.2025
  • Directed day-to-day operations, financial management, and team leadership for a seven-person staff
  • Consistently met or exceeded financial targets through cost control and sales optimization
  • Negotiated vendor contracts and built supplier relationships to improve margins and service
  • Instituted training and quality control measures that raised operational standards and guest satisfaction
  • Conducted performance evaluations and coaching to foster employee growth and retention

Bar Manager

Beta Lounge
Berkeley, CA
01.2015 - 11.2018
  • Created innovative cocktail menus and curated experiences that elevated guest engagement
  • Partnered with kitchen staff on food pairings to enhance overall customer experience
  • Negotiated pricing and managed supplier relationships for all bar-related inventory
  • - Organized special events and live entertainment to attract new clientele, and drive revenue.

Bar Manager

Build Pizzeria
Berkeley, CA
08.2013 - 12.2014
  • Designed and launched a cocktail program that earned Diablo Magazine's "Best New Cocktail"
  • Led and trained a team of 11 bar staff on mixology, service standards, and guest interaction
  • Managed bar inventory and procurement, consistently reducing waste and maintaining optimal stock levels
  • Ensured compliance with all health and safety regulations, maintaining a clean and organized environment.

Education

Business Administration

Berkeley City College
Berkeley, CA

Skills

  • Operations and management
  • Business leadership
  • Staff hiring and training
  • Budgeting and financial oversight
  • Inventory management
  • Vendor negotiation
  • Strategic planning
  • Hospitality excellence
  • Bar and restaurant management
  • Customer experience optimization
  • Beverage program development
  • Menu engineering
  • Event planning and promotion
  • Quality control
  • Consulting strategies
  • New venue openings
  • Operational efficiency
  • Sales strategy and growth
  • Workflow implementation
  • Multi-concept consulting

Timeline

Food and Beverage Consultant

Independent Consultant
03.2025 - Current

Owner / Managing Partner

Vino Locale
10.2020 - 01.2025

Owner / Managing Partner

Beta Lounge
11.2018 - 01.2025

Bar Manager

Beta Lounge
01.2015 - 11.2018

Bar Manager

Build Pizzeria
08.2013 - 12.2014

Business Administration

Berkeley City College