Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

MARY CONLON

Aurora,IL

Summary

Experienced Catering and Events professional with a solid 16-year track record in the dynamic food & beverage service industry. Committed to thriving in fast-paced environments, I bring a wealth of expertise and a passion for delivering exceptional service. Equipped with a deep understanding of the intricacies of this industry, dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for clients and guests. Seeking new opportunities to leverage skills and contribute to the success of an organization that values excellence and customer satisfaction.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Catering Captain

Wooden Paddle Pizza
05.2022 - Current


  • Managed a team of catering staff to deliver exceptional service during high-profile events, contributing to positive brand reputation.
  • Increased repeat business by building strong relationships with clients through attentive customer service and follow-up communication.
  • Maximized event success by expertly coordinating logistics such as venue setup, equipment rental, transportation arrangements, and staffing schedules.
  • Conducted regular training sessions for catering staff on best practices in food safety, professionalism, and customer service standards.
  • Maintained close communication with kitchen staff throughout events to guarantee timely preparation and delivery of food items according to client expectations.
  • Ensured adherence to all company policies and procedures, as well as local health department regulations, maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
  • Contributed to company growth by identifying areas for improvement within the catering department and implementing effective solutions based on industry trends and best practices.
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction by efficiently managing food and beverage service in various event settings.
  • Effectively communicated with clients to ensure their specific needs and preferences were met, resulting in successful events.
  • Resolved any issues that arose during events promptly and professionally, ensuring minimal disruption to guests'' experience.
  • Monitored food inventory and supplies to prevent waste.

Catering Manager

Lettuce Entertain You
08.2016 - 08.2020
  • Responsible for all Event Staff
  • Editing and execution of BEO
  • Control Run of Show
  • Coordinated event-day activities by acting as the primary point of contact for all inquiries.
  • Managed event logistics, including preparation and teardown, for up to 900 attendees.
  • Handled all aspects of checking in rentals for events promptly.
  • Maximized host satisfaction.
  • Interacted with guests to ensure positive experiences.
  • Operated multiple buffets ranging from 1 to 6 setups efficiently.
  • Aided in supervising all culinary operations.

Manager on Duty

Umami Restaurant Group
11.2013 - 09.2017
  • Manager on Duty
  • Opening and closing responsibilities
  • Planned any events on site
  • Moved with the company from Los Angeles to Chicago, to open their first Chicago location
  • Staff training
  • Reconciliation of all end of shift money

Education

B.A. - BUSINESS (SPECIAL EVENTS)

OLIVET COLLEGE
OLIVET, MI
12.2011

Skills

  • Strong POS skills
  • Brings the best out of co-workers
  • Able to learn and adapt quickly
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Strong public speaking skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Suite of products

Timeline

Catering Captain

Wooden Paddle Pizza
05.2022 - Current

Catering Manager

Lettuce Entertain You
08.2016 - 08.2020

Manager on Duty

Umami Restaurant Group
11.2013 - 09.2017

B.A. - BUSINESS (SPECIAL EVENTS)

OLIVET COLLEGE
MARY CONLON