Kathryn Denecochea
Thompson's Station,TN
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with a proven track record at Serrato's Steakhouse, excelling in team management and guest satisfaction. Skilled in staff training and event planning, I enhance dining experiences while optimizing operations. Recognized for exceptional communication and leadership, I thrive in high-volume environments, ensuring seamless service and fostering loyalty.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Hostess
Serrato's Steakhouse
Franklin, TN
12.2022 - Current
- Greeted and seated guests, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.
- Managed reservation systems to optimize seating efficiency.
- Assisted in training new hosts on customer service protocols.
- Monitored dining area for guest satisfaction and addressed concerns promptly.
- Organized waitlists and communicated estimated wait times to guests effectively.
- Adapted quickly to changing priorities during peak service hours.
- Managed guest waitlists effectively, minimizing wait times while still accommodating walk-in customers whenever possible.
- Assisted management with hiring, training, and evaluating new host/hostess staff members to maintain a high-performing team.
- Enhanced guest experience by efficiently managing reservations and seating arrangements.
- Answered customer questions about hours, seating, and menu information.
- Trained new hostesses on customer service best practices and restaurant policies to maintain high standards of service.
- Collected credit card, cash and gift certificate payments and dispensed change for cash transactions.
Lead Barista
Perenn
Franklin, TN
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Supervised daily operations of coffee preparation and service, ensuring quality and consistency.
- Trained and mentored junior baristas in beverage preparation techniques and customer service excellence.
- Developed new beverage recipes, enhancing seasonal menu offerings based on customer feedback.
- Implemented inventory management practices, reducing waste and optimizing stock levels for peak hours.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, fostering a positive atmosphere and retaining clientele loyalty.
- Collaborated with management to establish and maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization.
- Conducted regular staff meetings to communicate updates, share best practices, and encourage team cohesion.
- Optimized workflow processes for faster order completion, decreasing wait times for customers.
Barista
Honest Coffee Roasters
Franklin, TN
08.2024 - 03.2025
- Operated espresso machines and brewing equipment to prepare high-quality beverages.
- Trained new baristas on coffee preparation techniques and customer service standards.
- Managed inventory levels of coffee beans and supplies, ensuring freshness and variety.
- Provided exceptional customer service by engaging with patrons and addressing inquiries.
- Implemented efficiency improvements in beverage preparation processes to reduce wait times.
- Monitored product quality, ensuring consistency in flavor and presentation across all beverages.
- Promoted a welcoming atmosphere by greeting customers with a friendly demeanor and promptly addressing their needs.
- Handled customer complaints professionally, resolving issues promptly to ensure satisfaction and foster loyalty.
- Trained new employees, sharing knowledge and expertise of coffees, teas, and merchandise.
Education
High School Diploma -
Ironwood Academy
FranklinSkills
- Exceptional communication
- Phone etiquette
- Food safety awareness
- Team management
- Task delegation
- Staff training
- Employee scheduling
- Restaurant operations
- VIP handling
- Floor planning
- Strong leadership
- High volume dining
- Event planning
- Greeting guests
- Customer service expertise
- Guest complaint resolution
Timeline
Lead Barista
Perenn
06.2025 - 08.2025
Barista
Honest Coffee Roasters
08.2024 - 03.2025
Lead Hostess
Serrato's Steakhouse
12.2022 - Current
High School Diploma -
Ironwood Academy