Jillian Knights

Enhanced experience and knowledge with Italian vintages and varietals.

Developed proficiency in Italian language as it pertains to cuisine and hospitality. Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities including weekly wine classes, employee challenges in bottle sales, round table discussions regarding hospitality to improve service offerings.

Continued to elevate knowledge and experience in hospitality to include acquiring Introduction Sommelier Course and carrying on to achieve Sommelier II . Consistent in highest wine bottle sales and guests per server.

Expanding hospitality skills beyond dining to include both small and large corporate and personal private dining functions while still enhancing guest experience throughout their stay at iconic NH landmark hotel and restaurant.

Working with owner/operator to provide prix fixe menu of niche orientation served alongside appropriate wine pairings. Maintains flexible work schedule to meet event needs. Arranges linens and table settings according to seating plan and event theme in private homes and event centers. Aware of guests and chef's timing for appropriate mise en place. Knowledgeable about specific dishes and can speak to entire evening's menu and pairings.

Worked in a tip share environment where establishing trusting relationships with co-workers became as important as cultivating warm relationships with guests. Became knowledgeable about local seafood, sourcing and appropriate wine pairings from level 3 sommelier. Maintained outstanding guest report during Covid-19 by keeping elevated dining standards in a more casual al fresco environment.

Became proficient in seacoast organic farm-to-table cuisine, interacting with local farms/farmers and their community. Kept guests needs at front of engagements by comfortably communicating and honoring specific dietary needs or requests.

Became proficient in wine knowledge, fine dining and elevated steakhouse standards, I honed skills in customer service and hospitality while engaging cohesively with guests and chef in top-rated chef-owned NH steakhouse.