My recipe for success has been very simple: client focus, flawless execution, attention to detail and consistently delivering the unexpected. My entire career has been spent in the hospitality industry and I have developed a strong background in event planning and fine dining. Whether it is booking corporate guests, or assisting first time diners, my philosophy has always been the same; to create a unique and memorable experience with passion and professionalism while exceeding the guest’s expectations.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Events
STONEBURNER COMPANIES
Naples, FL
09.2021 - Current
Managed all aspects of events, marketing, and social media for (4) restaurant concepts
Increased sales and customer retention
Created new branding materials introducing the community to bayfront properties
Developed working relationships with outside vendors and establishes prices and service agreements to enhance the event experience and to increase additional revenue opportunities for the property
Increased sales by 40% in the first 6 months
Created the annual operating budget
Focused on building the property’s top line revenue by supporting the execution of the annual Meetings & Special Events Marketing Plan and providing leadership to the team on post-contractual upselling efforts
Researched and analyzed new products, pricing, and services of competition
Worked with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts
Ensured the property is apprised of all groups that will impact property operations
Ensured furniture and equipment is maintained and inventory levels are kept in accordance to corporate guidelines
Leaded the execution of brand service initiatives in event management areas
Developed an event management strategy that is aligned with the company’s business strategy and leads its execution
Conducted daily walk-through of banquet floor to ensure client satisfaction and quality standards
Created an atmosphere in all event management operations areas that meets or exceeds guest expectations
Consulted with customers to determine objectives and requirements for events such as meetings, conferences, and conventions
Reviewed customer feedback data to identify service failures and provide guidance on problem resolution
Replied to all restaurants opentable, google, trip advisor, yelp reviews
Director of Sales
DEROMO’S GOURMET MARKET & RESTAURANT
Bonita Springs, FL
02.2018 - 03.2020
Banquets & Off-Premise Catering
Direct and manage all aspects of the Food & Beverage Department events both on and off premise w/ emphasis on maintaining a service-based philosophy that serves as a guide to respective staff that ensures 100% guest satisfaction
Maintain complete knowledge of and comply with all departmental policies, service procedures and Company standards
Anticipate, acknowledge and respond promptly to all guests needs
Conducts weekly BEO/operational meetings
Ensure guest satisfaction with direct communication and contact
Prepare weekly work schedules in accordance with the guidelines and labor forecast
Adjust schedules weekly to meet business demands
Prospect for new corporate/social clients
Increased sales in 2019 by 30%
Created Off-Premise Catering menu as well as Custom menu’s with Chef for high end events
Created “dinner and a show” offering a unique experience that allows for business exposure
Facilitated a “Preferred vendor contract” at several locations including Lover’s Key Beach, Naples Barn, Bonita Arts, Shangri-La
Provided complimentary tastings to introduce DeRomo’s Catering to corporate clients
Created an “all-inclusive package” by partnering with hotels, rental companies and entertainment services in the area
Hosted invitation only CEO wine pairing events to generate new business
Converted temp staff to “on call” consistent team company staff saving hourly money
Dining Services Manager
THE TERRACES AT BONITA SPRINGS
Bonita Springs, FL
01.2017 - 01.2018
Supervised all Dining Room activities at every level
Managed services within budgetary guidelines, while meeting or exceeding service standards
Responsible for all front-of-the-house activity, including catering and special events
Plan, staff, and coordinate all dining room activities while meeting/exceeding service standards
Accurately communicate daily, meal count and beverage sale reports and catering BEOs
Assist Food and Beverage Director in the development and execution of operating budget
Responsible for hiring and training all incoming dining room staff members
Increased catering sales by hosting outside vendors to utilize the special event space
Created “express seating” for residents in the fine dining room by creating reservations and table assignments
Catering Manager
SODEXO, Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
03.2016 - 01.2017
Provided supervision for catering services at the account/unit to ensure client satisfaction and retention specifically to main campus and Ambler catering clients
Plan, advise and assist with menu options and selections, provided job quotes
Ensure the quality of catering operations, including dishware, linens, food, beverage and proper staffing within allocated labor budget targets
Assess catering deliveries and upcoming events throughout campus sites to ensure proper event execution and presentation
Conduct Root-Cause Analysis and develop Corrective Action Plans in response to egregious events and participant grievances in order to prevent re-occurrence and to satisfy inquiries from regulatory bodies
Develop a Strong Sales Portfolio
Contribute to account revenue and operating profit through implementation of services and quality
Create sales opportunities for growth by selling, seasonal specials and LTO’s
Ensure proper billing and event quotes and confirms payments are generated within guidelines
Properly Conduct Quality Management
Direct catering operations including table service, bars, continuous break stations and buffet lines
Build relationships with campus clients in order to provide support while seeking out catering opportunities
Implement business practices in order to properly execute the function of planning, delivery, set ups, pick-ups of daily catering events
Direct daily operations of catering services to ensure employees have appropriate equipment, inventory and resources to perform their job and meet goals and deadlines
Manage daily task list for staff, training and cross-training, cleaning, schedules, opening and closing checklists
Corporate Catering Manager & Sales Specialist
FOODWERX
Philadelphia, PA
01.2009 - 02.2015
Oversaw and executed marketing and social relations for the company
Created the Corporate/Social Relations Sales Specialist position which lead to the development of over 62 corporate accounts (Including: Lockheed Martin, Bayada Nurses, Archer & Creiner Law, Sun National Bank, Direct Buy, Keller Williams Realty, Wells Fargo Mortgage, American Water South Jersey Magazine)
Established an extensive networking schedule and cold calling system for new business
Developed new corporate tri-fold marketing materials and photo portfolio of past events
Secured “preferred catering” status with several large venues which lead to repeat business
Directly managed the coordination of catered and social events
Responsible for supervising large attendance events including weddings, bar mitzvahs, sweet 16, and anniversaries
Created “Flair” division involving major focus on presentation, back drop and décor specifically tailored for each event
Managed and trained all incoming sales and serving personal
Commercial Plumbing & HVAC Estimator / Project Man at DMS Companies, Inc. Dba Hernandez CompaniesCommercial Plumbing & HVAC Estimator / Project Man at DMS Companies, Inc. Dba Hernandez Companies