Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Kate Hughes

Freeburg,IL

Summary

Craft-focused lead bartender with extensive knowledge and experience in beer, wine, and cider, brewing and aging techniques, and a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences. Proven expertise in recommending and pairing spirits, adept at maintaining a well-stocked bar, and dedicated to creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Eager to contribute leadership, enthusiasm, expertise, and excellent communication skills to a dynamic team. Focuses on seeing details that are essential for the bigger picture to create great team flow.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Bartender/Warehouse

Side Project Brewing
12.2023 - 05.2024
  • Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
  • Maintained each customer had a world-class experience.
  • Communicated clearly and efficiently with my team on high volume, low staff days.
  • Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
  • Warehouse work including: packaging, labeling, wax dipping, shrink wrapping, transporting boxes

Lead Bartender

Urban Chestnut
11.2023 - 04.2024
  • Quickly learned over 40+ flavor descriptions of draft and canned products, and was able to explain details of each and every beer, while focusing on and succeeding at finding each customer product they desired.
  • Trained new bartenders on company policies, distinguishing which glasses for which product, how to ensure proper pours and best practices to maintain consistent performance across the team.
  • Upsold daily specials and beverage promotions to exceed daily sales goals.
  • Kept large bierhall clear of empty glasses and food plates, was attentive to the appearance of the space at all times.

Singing Server/Bartender

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
07.2022 - 10.2023
  • Served customers and international tour groups of 350+
  • Understood, identified and adapted to the cultural customs during serving and performing
  • Received consistently high GSS scores, created repeat customers and received recognition by providing memorable and individualized experiences
  • Team and shift lead

Lead Bartender

Diskin Cider
06.2021 - 05.2023
  • Worked with leads and managers each week to create specialty themed drink offerings (cider cocktails and shots).
  • In charge of weekly and daily inventory counts.
  • Helped coordinate and direct event space setup during weddings/special events.
  • Had daily team meetings, detailing new items and how to upsell these offerings


Cocktail Server/Bartender

Tailgate Brewery
06.2021 - 07.2022
  • Easily retained extensive and detailed knowledge about products, production, ingredients, prices, etc..
  • Excelled in sales, had highest sales numbers on team, and continually made connections, which kept high customer retention.
  • Managed many different tasks in a timely manner based on urgency.
  • Opening and closing duties, as well as taking care of all large parties

Wedding and Event Bartender

Von Jakob Vineyard & Brewery
08.2017 - 11.2020
  • Closed out cash register and prepared cashier report at close of business.
  • Prepared for events by setting up bar, stocking supplies and arranging tables.
  • Responded to guest questions and requests with friendly and knowledgeable service.
  • Kept detailed inventories and notified management of ordering needs for liquor, beer, wine, and bar supplies.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Intercultural Communication

Southern Illinois University Carbondale
05.2020

Skills

Training Development

  • Diversity & Inclusion in Hostel Environment/Shared Accommodation
  • Nonviolent Communication Skills in Childcare
  • Intercultural Relationship Development in Short-term Fostering - Belize Children's Project
  • LGBTQIA Inclusion in small town schools (Southern IL regions, as student)
  • Marriott Hospitality and Service Training
  • SAFE Bar Training

Certificates

Summer Institute for Intercultural Communication (Portland, Oregon)

  • Intercultural Career Planning
  • Cross-Cultural Training in International Corporations

HR Certification Institute (HRCI)

  • Global DEIB Strategy Course

Alcohol Beverage Commission Certified (TN-TABC)

Timeline

Bartender/Warehouse

Side Project Brewing
12.2023 - 05.2024

Lead Bartender

Urban Chestnut
11.2023 - 04.2024

Singing Server/Bartender

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
07.2022 - 10.2023

Lead Bartender

Diskin Cider
06.2021 - 05.2023

Cocktail Server/Bartender

Tailgate Brewery
06.2021 - 07.2022

Wedding and Event Bartender

Von Jakob Vineyard & Brewery
08.2017 - 11.2020

Bachelor of Science - Intercultural Communication

Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Kate Hughes