Kristen Kraft
Warren
Summary
Experienced and passionate hospitality professional with over 15 years in the industry, including 11 years behind the bar. Proven ability to lead teams, manage high-volume service, craft quality cocktails, and build loyal guest relationships. Looking to grow into a bar management role where my skills in training, operations, and guest experience can thrive.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender
Grey Ghost
Detroit, MI
07.2025 - Current
- Deliver consistent, high volume craft cocktail service within a fast-paced bar program.
- Handle core prep production for service, including batching, syrups, garnishes, and ingredient organization to keep the bar efficient during peak hours.
- Maintain clean, organized, and well-stocked workstations to support smooth service flow for both bar and floor teams.
- Provide knowledgeable, attentive guest service with confident recommendations across spirits, cocktails, wine, and beer.
- Collaborate with bar team on daily operations, new build execution, and adapting to menu or service changes.
Bartender
Standby
Detroit, MI
07.2023 - 07.2025
- Guide guests through a curated menu of 57 cocktails while ensuring each drink fits their preferences.
- Contribute to cocktail menu development using house-made ingredients and trend-forward techniques.
- Train and support new hires to uphold service and cleanliness standards.
- Maintain full prep including syrups and garnishes, and restock as needed.
- Track inventory, count tills, and support management with ordering and communication.
- Acted as Floor Manager in the absence of the General Manager, overseeing guest complaint resolution, labor cost optimization through floor cuts, and proactive troubleshooting of operational issues
Barback and Server
The Sugar House
Detroit, MI
04.2023 - 07.2023
- Proactively stocked and supported bartenders before and during service.
- Maintained bar organization and backup systems for syrups and spirits.
- Trained to become a server and gained fluency in a menu of 101 cocktails.
- Participated in new cocktail creation and provided input during R&D.
- Stocked supplies and ensured timely replenishment to meet high-volume demands.
- Trained new staff on bar procedures and proper equipment usage for safety compliance.
- Assisted with inventory management, ensuring proper stock levels of liquor, beer, wine, garnishes, and other bar supplies.
- Participated in weekly prep projects
Lead Bartender
The Vault Downtown
Fenton, MI
09.2022 - 03.2023
- Managed daily prep and created all juices and syrups in-house.
- Took orders, verified guest age, and recommended food and drink pairings.
- Developed innovative drink recipes, enhancing menu offerings and attracting diverse clientele.
- Trained and mentored junior bartenders, fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Closed the restaurant, handled cash, and communicated inventory needs to management.
- Oversaw deep cleaning routines and ensured shift readiness.
Independent Contractor
Shipt
Remote
06.2020 - 09.2022
- Maintained a customer rating above 4.9 with 100 percent on-time delivery.
- Balanced multiple orders and delivery schedules with consistent professionalism.
- Demonstrated strong time management and customer service independently
- Maintained high service standards by suggesting high-quality alternatives for out-of-stock items and personally overseeing complex customer requests with a focus on their satisfaction.
Lead Bartender and Trainer
Cello
Howell, MI
08.2017 - 03.2020
- Directed training for incoming staff at Cello while partnering with Diamond’s (sister restaurant) trainers to identify and implement best practices for peer-to-peer instruction.
- Supervised daily bar operations, ensuring high standards of service and product quality.
- Resolved customer complaints swiftly, maintaining satisfaction and loyalty through effective conflict resolution skills.
- Built a deep understanding of an extensive wine list to help guide guests toward selections they would truly enjoy based on their personal tastes.
- Upsold daily specials and beverage promotions to exceed daily sales goals.
Education
General Education -
Fowlerville High School
Fowlerville, MI06.2009
Skills
- Tips Certified
- BarSmarts Basic & Professional Certified
- Team leadership and training
- Craft cocktail development
- Inventory and prep management
- Fast-paced service under pressure
- Guest experience focused
- POS and bar systems knowledge
- Self-starter with managerial aspirations
- Team player attitude
- Highly Reliable and punctual
Accomplishments
- Tales of the Cocktail 2025 CAP Red Coat
- Speed Rack Midwest 2025 Top 8
- St. George Spirits Sustainability Cocktail Competition Winner
Timeline
Bartender
Grey Ghost
07.2025 - Current
Bartender
Standby
07.2023 - 07.2025
Barback and Server
The Sugar House
04.2023 - 07.2023
Lead Bartender
The Vault Downtown
09.2022 - 03.2023
Independent Contractor
Shipt
06.2020 - 09.2022
Lead Bartender and Trainer
Cello
08.2017 - 03.2020
General Education -
Fowlerville High School