Justin Taylor
Clackamas,OR
Summary
Experienced hospitality professional with 10+ years in fine dining service, wine stewardship, banquet operations, luxury events, and culinary environments. Strong background in guest experience, high-volume service, team collaboration, and detail-oriented hospitality. Recognized for calm floor presence, strong interpersonal communication, and the ability to create polished guest experiences in fast-paced environments
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Event Manager
Vibrant Table Catering
05.2017 - 03.2021
- Managed large-scale catered events, private functions, galas, weddings, and corporate experiences with guest counts upwards of 1500 people.
- Oversaw FOH staff operations, scheduling, banquet execution, and guest service standards
- Coordinated vendors, timelines, floor logistics, and event presentation under high-pressure conditions
- Maintained polished guest experiences while adapting quickly to live event changes and operational challenges
- Directed service teams in upscale hospitality environments with strong attention to detail and professionalism
- Led post-event evaluations, identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategic changes.
- Trained junior staff on best practices in event management and customer service excellence.
Lead Server
Vibrant Table Catering
03.2016 - 03.2017
- Supervised team of servers to ensure exceptional service and guest satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new staff, enhancing service quality.
- Maintained elevated fine dining service standards during high-volume events
FOH Manager
Thirst Wine Bar & Bistro
05.2012 - 01.2016
- Managed wine service, beverage inventory, banquet operations, and guest-facing dining experiences.
- Assisted guests with wine pairings and menu recommendations
- Maintained strong customer relationships through attentive and personalized service
- Oversaw product management, ordering, and front-of-house operations
- Executed tableside service and upscale hospitality standards in a fast-paced restaurant environment
Pastry Chef
Bistro Marquee
01.2012 - 01.2014
- Oversaw pastry production, ensuring high-quality standards and consistency across all items.
- Assisted with front-of-house supervision and guest experience standards
- Managed inventory, prep schedules, and kitchen coordination
- Worked alongside opening leadership during restaurant launch and operational development
Customer Service Representative
The Tropical Hut
09.2024 - 10.2025
- Delivered exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
- Assisted guests with product recommendations and husbandry education
- Delivered customer-focused sales and specialty animal care guidance
- Exotic reptile husbandry and care; including habitat maintenance and enclosure management, feeding schedule coordination and customer education on reptile care
Private Caregiver
Private Care
02.2020 - Current
- Provided personalized care and assistance with daily living activities for clients.
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans tailored to client needs.
- Monitored and recorded vital signs, reporting changes to healthcare professionals.
- Maintained a clean, safe environment, adhering to health and safety regulations.
Education
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Culinary Arts - Advanced Pastry & Italian Cuisine
Oregon Culinary Institute
Portland, OR02.2010
Skills
Customer service
Accomplishments
- Internal promotion from Server to Event Manager within Vibrant Table Catering
- Published pastry chef feature in Portland Monthly, and EAT Portland
- Extensive background in hospitality aesthetics, presentation, and guest-facing service excellence
- Published in British Vogue, Risk Magazine, Adore Magazine, and Bisous Magazine as a Photographer
Timeline
Customer Service Representative
The Tropical Hut
09.2024 - 10.2025
Private Caregiver
Private Care
02.2020 - Current
Event Manager
Vibrant Table Catering
05.2017 - 03.2021
Lead Server
Vibrant Table Catering
03.2016 - 03.2017
FOH Manager
Thirst Wine Bar & Bistro
05.2012 - 01.2016
Pastry Chef
Bistro Marquee
01.2012 - 01.2014
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Culinary Arts - Advanced Pastry & Italian Cuisine
Oregon Culinary Institute