Leah Colon
Cleveland ,OHIO
Summary
Driven leader with strong problem-solving and customer service skills. Dedicated to providing highest level of service to customers and creating pleasant work environment for staff. Knowledgeable in food safety and sanitation protocols. Highly proactive manager with10+ years of experience in team leadership in customer service industry. Background includes sales, management and customer service in fast-paced settings.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Restaurant Manager
The Blue Palm Latin Restaurant And Lounge
10.2022 - 06.2023
- Improved overall customer satisfaction by implementing new service standards and staff training programs.
- Increased restaurant revenue by optimizing table turnover rates and enhancing menu offerings.
- Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
- Reduced staff turnover rate with effective leadership, open communication, and employee development opportunities.
- Enhanced guest experience by regularly reviewing feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
- Oversaw inventory management processes to minimize waste and maintain optimal stock levels for seamless operation.
- Collaborated with the executive chef on menu development, ensuring diverse options that catered to various dietary needs.
- Ensured compliance with local health department regulations through regular staff training sessions and facility inspections.
- Coordinated catering services for private events, delivering memorable experiences while maximizing profits.
- Optimized labor costs by closely monitoring schedules, adjusting staffing levels according to business needs, and employing cross-training strategies.
- Mentored and developed staff members for career advancement opportunities, leading to a more skilled and motivated workforce.
- Promoted positive atmosphere and went above and beyond to guarantee each customer received exceptional food and service.
- Carefully interviewed, selected, trained, and supervised staff.
Cleaner/Inspector
Tima’s Cleaning
11.2021 - 01.2022
- Enhanced workplace cleanliness by performing thorough daily cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, and dusting.
- Improved overall facility hygiene by sanitizing high-touch surfaces regularly to minimize the spread of germs.
- Maintained a well-organized storage area for cleaning supplies to ensure easy access and efficient use of materials.
- Promoted environmental sustainability by implementing eco-friendly cleaning practices and reducing waste.
- Contributed to a positive working environment by addressing and resolving maintenance issues promptly.
- Increased customer satisfaction by maintaining clean restrooms and public spaces in a timely manner.
- Performed deep-cleaning tasks for carpets, upholstery, and window treatments to extend their lifespan and maintain appearance.
- Strengthened teamwork within the cleaning staff by actively communicating updates on tasks completed or pending work requirements.
- Managed inventory levels of cleaning supplies efficiently while minimizing costs through strategic purchasing decisions.
- Conducted regular inspections of facilities to identify potential hazards or areas requiring attention for improved cleanliness standards.
- Demonstrated an outstanding commitment to safety protocols by consistently wearing protective gear during cleaning tasks that involved hazardous materials or situations.
- Developed strong relationships with clients through professionalism and consistent delivery of reliable services tailored to their specific needs.
- Exceeded client expectations in providing quality services while adhering strictly to deadlines for project completion timelines.
- Streamlined cleaning processes with the implementation of more efficient tools and equipment as needed within the industry''s best practices framework.
- Showcased adaptability in adjusting work schedules according to changing demands from clients or management without compromising output quality levels.
- Provided assistance to other staff members with cleaning of difficult areas.
- Supervised supplies in inventory and submitted reorder requests.
- Improved inspection efficiency by implementing advanced data analysis tools and techniques.
- Streamlined inspection processes for faster turnaround times, resulting in increased productivity.
- Developed customized inspection checklists tailored to specific job sites, ensuring thorough evaluations.
- Provided expert guidance on best practices related to quality control and assurance, supporting continuous improvement efforts within the organization.
- Maintained accurate records of all inspections performed, allowing for more informed decision making regarding maintenance schedules and resource allocation.
- Delivered detailed reports on findings from inspections, helping stakeholders understand areas requiring attention or improvement in order to maintain regulatory compliance.
- Assisted in the development of training materials, improving overall team knowledge and competency levels related to inspection procedures and requirements.
- Supported management in establishing risk-based inspection programs tailored to unique project needs.
- Led audit and inspection schedules for staff and contractors, meeting strict deadlines.
Banquet Captain
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
08.2016 - 08.2021
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by overseeing banquet operations and ensuring smooth execution of events.
- Coordinated with event planners for seamless event organization, leading to increased positive reviews.
- Managed staff scheduling, resulting in reduced labor costs and improved team efficiency.
- Improved overall service quality by conducting regular staff training sessions and performance evaluations.
- Collaborated with culinary teams to design customized menus, meeting the specific needs of clients and guests.
- Increased repeat business by developing strong relationships with clients and consistently delivering exceptional service.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations, maintaining a safe working environment for both staff and guests.
- Streamlined setup processes to optimize room turnover times between events, enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Implemented inventory control procedures for banquet equipment and supplies, reducing waste and associated costs.
- Handled client inquiries promptly and professionally, fostering excellent rapport and driving repeat business.
- Resolved customer complaints effectively, turning potentially negative experiences into opportunities for improvement.
- Maintained clear communication channels between all departments involved in banquets, contributing to successful event outcomes.
- Developed creative solutions for unforeseen issues during events, minimizing disruptions while maximizing guest satisfaction.
- Assisted sales team in upselling additional services or amenities to clients, increasing overall revenue for the company.
- Ensured timely preparation of function spaces according to client specifications, providing them a hassle-free experience on their special day.
- Promoted team collaboration among banquet staff members through effective leadership practices that fostered a supportive work environment.
- Evaluated employee performance routinely through constructive feedback which contributed towards professional growth and development.
- Maintained accurate records of event details, client communications, and financial transactions to ensure seamless organization and execution.
- Set and enforced performance and service standards to keep consistent, high-quality environment devoted to customer satisfaction.
- Liaised with venue management to monitor logistics and timelines.
- Oversaw timeliness and quality of food delivery at high-volume events.
- Organized and oversaw food service training to educate employees on resetting tables, relaying orders to cooks and upselling food and beverages.
- Managed budgeting and invoicing for both large and small-scale events.
- Performed cost-benefit analysis for corporate and social events.
- Provided exceptional service to guests by immediately addressing needs and requests.
- Delegated tasks to staff members to maximize production under tight deadlines.
- Set up and broke down conference and banquet rooms to meet facility standards and specifications.
- Organized banquet storage and surrounding areas to facilitate access to products and materials.
- Directed and managed banquet functions for Number-person event.
- Arranged furniture and equipment to maximize space and floor plan for seamless movement during functions.
- Followed safety procedures and incorporated safety equipment to reduce injury and loss.
- Interpreted instructions to schedule and set up events to client specifications.
- Liaised with catering department about event changes and implemented requested adjustments.
- Hired, trained and scheduled staff to maintain adequate coverage for successful operations.
- Maintained clear and easy access to exits and fire lanes to prepare for emergencies.
- Established and maintained equipment inventory for accurate tracking, record keeping and to avoid loss.
- Resolved guest and employee complaints to maintain complete customer satisfaction and workforce effectiveness.
- Supervised set up of banquet food stations and coordinated service to multiple dining areas.
- Supervised dining table set-up to prepare for diversity of event types, following strict service standards.
- Assisted customers in selecting menu items, answering questions and providing general information.
- Served meals to customers according to established guidelines.
- Kept register accurate through correct billing, payment processing, and cash management practices.
- Arranged food, utensils and condiments on trays to serve meals with necessary items.
- Maintained clean and safe work environment.
- Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
- Replenished condiments and other supplies at tables and service bars.
- Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
- Added food items, beverages, and utensils to trays and immediately delivered to correct rooms.
- Refilled beverage glasses, cleared and reset tables, and stocked service areas.
- Asked diners about meals to assess satisfaction and collect vital feedback to improve operations.
- Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
- Assessed meal preparation to check creation of special orders and cooking procedures.
- Processed customer payments to accurately record transactions.
- Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
- Supported needs of 20- person wait staff who attended to specific needs of countless customers daily for banquets and restaurants with social relevancy and intentionality.
- Monitored staff money handling for suspicious behaviors like card skimming.
Banquet Server
Aurora Inn - Hotel & Event Center
08.2015 - 08.2015
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and friendly service during banquet events.
- Ensured timely food delivery by effectively communicating with kitchen staff and coordinating efforts.
- Maintained a clean and organized dining area for optimal guest comfort and enjoyment.
- Assisted in setting up the event space, ensuring proper table arrangements and placement of utensils for seamless guest experience.
- Demonstrated exceptional teamwork by collaborating with fellow servers to maintain a smooth flow of service during large-scale events.
- Increased overall event success by anticipating guests'' needs and promptly addressing requests or concerns.
- Contributed to positive guest feedback by consistently delivering high-quality service in a professional manner.
- Handled special dietary requests, ensuring all guests received appropriate meals according to their preferences or restrictions.
- Completed post-event tasks such as cleaning, breakdown, and inventory management to prepare for future banquets efficiently.
- Supported event coordinators by actively participating in pre-event meetings, discussing setup requirements, and establishing clear communication channels.
- Boosted banquet sales through effective upselling techniques and knowledgeable recommendations on menu items or beverage options.
- Adhered to safety protocols during food handling processes, minimizing risk of contamination or illness for guests.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining composure under pressure in fast-paced banquet environments.
- Delivered outstanding service even during peak hours or challenging circumstances, receiving commendations from both clients and supervisors alike.
- Developed strong rapport with repeat customers, leading to increased loyalty and return business for the venue''s banquet services.
- Received praise from management for consistently exhibiting a positive attitude towards work responsibilities despite long shifts or demanding schedules often associated with the industry.
- Efficiently resolved guest complaints using excellent problem-solving skills resulting in satisfied customers who continued attending future events at the venue.
- Adapted to last-minute changes in event schedules or requirements, effectively modifying plans and maintaining service quality without any negative impact on guest experience.
- Collaborated with the culinary team to ensure proper food presentation, enhancing overall visual appeal and guest dining experience during events.
- Provided exceptional assistance in training new banquet servers, sharing valuable industry knowledge and best practices for efficient service delivery.
- Set up banquet tables and chairs based on event requirements.
- Carried out professional service, retaining polite and friendly approach at all times.
- Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
- Arranged linens and table settings according to seating plan and event theme.
- Served appetizers, delivered entrees, and refilled beverages for banquet guests.
- Performed opening and closing duties for banquet hall, following checklist to restock supplies and clean up all service areas.
- Maintained flexible work schedule to meet event needs.
- Worked with banquet manager to coordinate event set up and schedule.
- Responded to guest inquiries and requests promptly and courteously.
- Maintained event cleanliness during service by promptly clearing dishes after each course.
- Adhered to all health and safety regulations while serving food and beverages.
- Maintained customer satisfaction with timely table check-ins to assess food and beverage needs.
- Handled food and beverage orders for up to Number guests, delivering prompt and friendly service.
- Answered guest questions about event plans and food service choices.
- Adjusted service based on customer requests and kitchen readiness.
- Refilled beverage glasses, cleared and reset tables, and stocked service areas.
- Served meals to customers according to established guidelines.
- Maintained clean and safe work environment.
- Supervised set up of banquet food stations and coordinated service to multiple dining areas.
- Arranged food, utensils and condiments on trays to serve meals with necessary items.
- Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
- Resolved guest and employee complaints to maintain complete customer satisfaction and workforce effectiveness.
- Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
- Replenished condiments and other supplies at tables and service bars.
- Supervised dining table set-up to prepare for diversity of event types, following strict service standards.
- Added food items, beverages, and utensils to trays and immediately delivered to correct rooms.
- Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
- Assisted customers in selecting menu items, answering questions and providing general information.
- Asked diners about meals to assess satisfaction and collect vital feedback to improve operations.
- Assessed meal preparation to check creation of special orders and cooking procedures.
- Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
- Processed customer payments to accurately record transactions.
- Kept register accurate through correct billing, payment processing, and cash management practices.
- Supported needs of 20- person wait staff who attended to specific needs of countless customers daily for banquets and restaurant with social relevancy and intentionality.
- Monitored staff money handling for suspicious behaviors like card skimming.
Banquet Captain
Embassy Suites
02.2011 - 04.2015
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by overseeing banquet operations and ensuring smooth execution of events.
- Coordinated with event planners for seamless event organization, leading to increased positive reviews.
- Managed staff scheduling, resulting in reduced labor costs and improved team efficiency.
- Improved overall service quality by conducting regular staff training sessions and performance evaluations.
- Collaborated with culinary teams to design customized menus, meeting the specific needs of clients and guests.
- Increased repeat business by developing strong relationships with clients and consistently delivering exceptional service.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations, maintaining a safe working environment for both staff and guests.
- Streamlined setup processes to optimize room turnover times between events, enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Implemented inventory control procedures for banquet equipment and supplies, reducing waste and associated costs.
- Handled client inquiries promptly and professionally, fostering excellent rapport and driving repeat business.
- Resolved customer complaints effectively, turning potentially negative experiences into opportunities for improvement.
- Negotiated vendor contracts to secure competitive pricing on event rentals, saving company resources without sacrificing quality.
- Maintained clear communication channels between all departments involved in banquets, contributing to successful event outcomes.
- Developed creative solutions for unforeseen issues during events, minimizing disruptions while maximizing guest satisfaction.
- Assisted sales team in upselling additional services or amenities to clients, increasing overall revenue for the company.
- Ensured timely preparation of function spaces according to client specifications, providing them a hassle-free experience on their special day.
- Promoted team collaboration among banquet staff members through effective leadership practices that fostered a supportive work environment.
- Evaluated employee performance routinely through constructive feedback which contributed towards professional growth and development.
- Conducted post-event follow-ups and gathered client feedback which helped refine operational procedures based on valuable insights.
- Maintained accurate records of event details, client communications, and financial transactions to ensure seamless organization and execution.
- Set and enforced performance and service standards to keep consistent, high-quality environment devoted to customer satisfaction.
- Liaised with venue management to monitor logistics and timelines.
- Oversaw timeliness and quality of food delivery at high-volume events.
- Organized and oversaw food service training to educate employees on resetting tables, relaying orders to cooks and upselling food and beverages.
- Supervised and mentored kitchen and serving staff.
- Managed budgeting and invoicing for both large and small-scale events.
- Performed cost-benefit analysis for corporate and social events.
- Provided exceptional service to guests by immediately addressing needs and requests.
- Delegated tasks to staff members to maximize production under tight deadlines.
- Set up and broke down conference and banquet rooms to meet facility standards and specifications.
- Organized banquet storage and surrounding areas to facilitate access to products and materials.
- Directed and managed banquet functions for Number-person event.
- Arranged furniture and equipment to maximize space and floor plan for seamless movement during functions.
- Followed safety procedures and incorporated safety equipment to reduce injury and loss.
- Interpreted instructions to schedule and set up events to client specifications.
- Liaised with catering department about event changes and implemented requested adjustments.
- Hired, trained and scheduled staff to maintain adequate coverage for successful operations.
- Maintained clear and easy access to exits and fire lanes to prepare for emergencies.
- Established and maintained equipment inventory for accurate tracking, record keeping and to avoid loss.
- Resolved guest and employee complaints to maintain complete customer satisfaction and workforce effectiveness.
- Supervised set up of banquet food stations and coordinated service to multiple dining areas.
- Supervised dining table set-up to prepare for diversity of event types, following strict service standards.
- Assisted customers in selecting menu items, answering questions and providing general information.
- Served meals to customers according to established guidelines.
- Kept register accurate through correct billing, payment processing, and cash management practices.
- Arranged food, utensils and condiments on trays to serve meals with necessary items.
- Maintained clean and safe work environment.
- Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
- Replenished condiments and other supplies at tables and service bars.
- Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
- Added food items, beverages, and utensils to trays and immediately delivered to correct rooms.
- Refilled beverage glasses, cleared and reset tables, and stocked service areas.
- Asked diners about meals to assess satisfaction and collect vital feedback to improve operations.
- Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
- Assessed meal preparation to check creation of special orders and cooking procedures.
- Processed customer payments to accurately record transactions.
- Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
- Supported needs of Number- person wait staff who attended to specific needs of countless customers daily for Type restaurant with social relevancy and intentionality.
- Monitored staff money handling for suspicious behaviors like card skimming.
Dietary Aide
Rae Ann Nursing Facility
01.2010 - 01.2011
- Improved patient satisfaction by providing high-quality meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
- Assisted in the preparation of nutritious meals for patients with various medical conditions and dietary restrictions.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by maintaining a clean and organized workspace, ensuring timely meal production and delivery.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop individualized meal plans based on patient needs, resulting in better health outcomes.
- Ensured food safety compliance through proper storage, handling, and sanitation procedures, minimizing risk of contamination or illness.
- Streamlined meal assembly processes for faster service without compromising quality or accuracy.
- Provided exceptional customer service to patients and their families, addressing concerns and answering questions about dietary guidelines and restrictions.
- Maintained accurate records of patient meal orders to ensure appropriate distribution of meals according to individual requirements.
- Coordinated with other dietary aides and kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and timely delivery of meals, contributing to a smooth-running operation.
- Maintained strict adherence to HIPAA regulations when handling patient information, protecting confidentiality at all times.
- Served meals to residents in accordance with established schedules and dietary procedures.
- Kept all kitchen areas clean, tidy and free of hazards.
- Washed plates, cups, serving, and eating utensils and kitchen equipment in commercial dishwasher.
- Cleared tables and removed dishes, trays, and utensils from dining room to dishwashing area.
- Delivered nourishment and supplements to nurse station for distribution to specific residents.
- Cross-trained in other kitchen positions to support staff and meet customer needs and demands.
- Prepared tables by laying out napkins and utensils, refilling condiments and performing other preliminary tasks.
Education
Real Estate Certificates Of Completion - Real Estate
Hondos College
4100 Rockside Rd Independence Ohio4413108.2018
Highschool Diploma -
John Marshall Highschool
3952 West 140 Cleveland Ohio 4411106.2008
Skills
- Staff Management
- Customer Engagement
- Menu Development
- Operations Management
- Schedule Coordination
- Customer-Oriented
- Team Management
- Conflict Resolution Techniques
- Inventory Control and Record Keeping
- Business Operations Expertise
- Adaptable
- Staff Scheduling
- Point of Sale (POS) System Operation
- Supervisory Skills
- Complaint Resolution
- Food Service Background
- Organization and Prioritization
- Customer Loyalty
- Performance Improvement
- Organizational Skills
- Event Planning
- Effective Communication
- Quality Assurance
- Financial Management
- Sales Techniques
- Time Management
- Decision Making
- Customer Service
- Leadership Abilities
- Problem Solving
- Money Handling
- Relationship Building
- Payroll
- Critical Thinking
- Coaching and Mentoring
- Reliable and Responsible
- ServSafe Food Manager
- Delegating Assignments and Tasks
- Scheduling
- Managing Reservations and Large Parties
- Service Delivery Management
- Calendar and Scheduling Software
- Calm and Pleasant Demeanor
- Sales Promotion
- Liquor Law Compliance
- Catering Services
- Safe Food Handling
- Collaboration and Teamwork
- Back of House Management
- Investigating Complaints
- Front of House Management
Timeline
Restaurant Manager
The Blue Palm Latin Restaurant And Lounge
10.2022 - 06.2023
Cleaner/Inspector
Tima’s Cleaning
11.2021 - 01.2022
Banquet Captain
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
08.2016 - 08.2021
Banquet Server
Aurora Inn - Hotel & Event Center
08.2015 - 08.2015
Banquet Captain
Embassy Suites
02.2011 - 04.2015
Dietary Aide
Rae Ann Nursing Facility
01.2010 - 01.2011
Real Estate Certificates Of Completion - Real Estate
Hondos College
Highschool Diploma -
John Marshall Highschool
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