Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Work Preference
Timeline
Generic
Open To Work

Justin Russell

Nantucket,MA

Summary

Experienced restaurant manager recognized for driving productivity and optimizing operations. Expertise in staff training, inventory management, and delivering exceptional customer service. Proven ability to lead teams, communicate effectively, and solve problems to boost performance and enhance guest satisfaction.

Overview

1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience

Work History

Beverage Manager

Nantucket Yacht Club
Nantucket, MA
2016 - Current
  • Oversaw beverage operations for private club with 800 members and their guests on Nantucket Island.
  • Created and updated seasonal cocktail menus, curated a spirits list of over 200 selections, and managed a wine by the glass program.
  • Trained front of house staff, managed inventory and ordering, and curated beverage selections for large private events.

Captain

Atelier Crenn
San Francisco, CA
2013 - 2015
  • Led daily operations of high-end dining service.
  • Highlighted local California farms and seafood in 20-plus course tasting menu at Atelier Crenn, awarded 3 Michelin stars.
  • Led nightly financial closings, managed reservations, trained service staff, and supported wine program.
  • Trained and mentored junior staff in service standards.
  • Coordinated with kitchen team for seamless meal service.

Bartender

Del Posto
New York, NY
2012 - 2013
  • Prepared classic cocktails and signature drinks for diverse clientele.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, ensuring guest satisfaction and engagement.
  • Maintained bar cleanliness and organized inventory for efficient service.
  • Collaborated with Batali Bastanich group at Del Posto, a Relais Châteaux and Michelin starred luxury Italian property, to enhance guest experience through tailored beverage selections.

Restaurant Manager

Twelve Restaurant
Denver, CO
2011 - 2013
  • Provided exceptional customer service in a fast-paced dining environment.
  • Assisted guests with menu selections and special dietary needs.
  • Led service for monthly changing menu with 30 seats and small staff, focusing on seasonal ingredients.
  • Developed and maintained wine program to enhance guest experience.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area and service stations.

General Manager

Row 14 Bistro & Wine Bar
Denver, CO
2010 - 2011
  • Contributed to development of wine and bar program, constructing spirits list, cocktail program, and cost structure.
  • Oversaw all aspects of restaurant operations, managing staffing, scheduling, training, P&L, marketing, accounting, and developing operating systems.
  • Managed daily operations at an upscale bistro and wine bar, ensuring efficient service and customer satisfaction.
  • Created staff schedules to optimize service coverage and meet customer demand.
  • Developed and implemented training programs for new employees.

General Manager

Corridor 44
Denver, CO
2009 - 2010
  • Managed Front of House operations, enhancing service quality and guest satisfaction through effective team oversight.
  • Coordinated staffing and scheduling for team operations in high-traffic retail environment, optimizing labor allocation.
  • Managed and curated Denver’s largest Champagne selection, ensuring quality and variety.

Assistant Manager/ Bartender

RootDown
Denver, CO
2007 - 2009
  • Managed daily operations in high-volume farm-to-table restaurant, ensuring efficient service and quality standards.
  • Coordinated staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours.
  • Led team meetings to discuss operational strategies and improve workflow efficiency.
  • Assisted in training new employees on company policies and procedures.
  • Maintained wine list featuring organic, biodynamic, and sustainable selections, enhancing guest experience and supporting sustainable practices.

Server/ Bartender

Rioja
Denver, CO
2005 - 2008
  • Multiple awards including: James Beard Best Chef South West & Zagat America’s top restaurant.
  • Led service team at one of Denver’s top restaurants, ensuring exceptional guest experiences over 3 years.
  • Oversaw drink orders at the bar, ensuring timely service and accuracy. and mixed beverages with precision and creativity.
  • Provided exceptional customer service in a fast-paced dining environment.
  • Assisted in maintaining cleanliness and organization of the bar and dining area.

Education

Exercise Science

Fort Lewis College
Durango, CO

Skills

  • Beverage program management
  • Wine program curation
  • Sommelier expertise
  • Beverage cost control
  • Inventory management
  • Financial management
  • Staff scheduling
  • Front-of-house training

Certification

  • Court of Masters certified sommelier
  • Tips Certification
  • Crowd manager & fire certification

Work Preference

Job Search Status

Open to work

Timeline

Beverage Manager

Nantucket Yacht Club
2016 - Current

Captain

Atelier Crenn
2013 - 2015

Bartender

Del Posto
2012 - 2013

Restaurant Manager

Twelve Restaurant
2011 - 2013

General Manager

Row 14 Bistro & Wine Bar
2010 - 2011

General Manager

Corridor 44
2009 - 2010

Assistant Manager/ Bartender

RootDown
2007 - 2009

Server/ Bartender

Rioja
2005 - 2008

Exercise Science

Fort Lewis College
Justin Russell