Koray Yatkinoglu
Napa,CA
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven General Manager with over a decade of experience leading high-volume restaurants and hospitality operations in Napa Valley. Proven track record of driving revenue growth, enhancing guest satisfaction, and building high-performing teams. Skilled in strategic planning, large-party event coordination, vendor negotiations, and P&L management. Recognized for innovative marketing initiatives, staff training programs, and successful rebranding projects that elevated brand visibility and profitability. Adept at fostering strong community partnerships, maintaining compliance with regulatory agencies, and delivering exceptional guest experiences in fast-paced, competitive environments.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager
Carpe Diem Restaurant and Bar
02.2024 - 09.2025
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately.
- Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
Restaurant Manager
The Girl and The Fig
03.2022 - 02.2024
- Directed daily restaurant operations, ensuring excellence in food quality, service standards, and overall guest satisfaction.
- Interviewed, hired, trained, and supervised a team of 30+ staff, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
- Monitored inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships to optimize cost control and reduce waste while maintaining premium product quality.
- Engaged directly with guests to gather feedback and implemented improvements that elevated repeat business and online review scores.
- Oversaw scheduling, labor management, and compliance with health and safety regulations to maintain smooth and efficient operations.
- Supported revenue growth by coordinating private events and wine-focused dinners, driving both community engagement and profitability.
Maitre D'Hotel
Celebrity Cruises
10.2009 - 04.2019
- Oversaw front-of-house operations in Murano Specialty Restaurant, one of the cruise line’s premier fine dining venues.
- Delivered exceptional guest experiences through personalized service, attention to detail, and consistent execution of luxury standards.
- Specialized in tableside preparations including flambé, carving, and deboning, showcasing traditional fine dining techniques with modern flair.
- Coordinated seating arrangements, reservations, and service flow to maximize guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Supervised and trained an international team of servers and sommeliers, ensuring adherence to service protocols and brand standards.
- Partnered with culinary leadership and wine program managers to enhance menu presentations and deliver unique wine-pairing experiences.
- Handled high-profile guests and VIPs with discretion and professionalism, contributing to strong repeat clientele and positive guest ratings.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Tourism And Hotel Management
Uludag University
Bursa, Turkiye09-2003
Skills
- Leadership and team building
- Problem resolution
- Operations management
- Team player
- Training and coaching
- Team leadership
- Customer relations
Certification
- Intermediate Sommelier Certification – Le Cordon Bleu
- Food Handler Manager Certification – ServSafe / State of California
Timeline
General Manager
Carpe Diem Restaurant and Bar
02.2024 - 09.2025
Restaurant Manager
The Girl and The Fig
03.2022 - 02.2024
Maitre D'Hotel
Celebrity Cruises
10.2009 - 04.2019
Associate of Applied Science - Tourism And Hotel Management
Uludag University
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