Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
Timeline
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Matthew Rivera

Va. Beach,VA

Summary

Experienced General Manager with a proven track record in effectively managing daily operations and driving team performance. Skilled in strategic planning and communication, resulting in seamless execution and improved operational efficiency. Seeking employment with a company that values experience, provides opportunities for growth and skill development, and allows me to leverage my years of experience to learn and adapt to new challenges. Eager to contribute expertise to drive success and achieve organizational goals, making a meaningful impact and contributing to the overall success of the company.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

General Manager, Kitchen Manager

Abuelos Mexican Embassy
08.2008 - 08.2023
  • Oversight of business operations effectively working with a management team to accomplish optimal results
  • 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 guests, 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.

Culinary, Sales Manager

Olive Garden
05.2003 - 05.2007
  • Implemented detailed recipe documentation procedures, ensuring consistency in taste and presentation across all dishes served.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations for increased efficiency by implementing effective inventory management systems.
  • Motivated team of employees to maintain high standards of food preparation and efficiency per shift.
  • Continuously refined culinary skills through ongoing professional development initiatives such as workshops, seminars, or industry conferences, staying current on best practices and emerging trends to drive continuous improvement within the restaurant operation.
  • Optimized kitchen staffing levels to maintain a balance between efficient service delivery and cost management, reducing labor costs without compromising quality or guest satisfaction.
  • Scheduled kitchen staff of over 25 people.
  • Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and guest satisfaction.
  • Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Hired, trained and supervised team of service staff members to meet business goals.
  • Trained and supervised new staff to enhance customer service skills and comply with food safety standards.

General Manager

Darrel's/Houlihan's
03.2000 - 04.2003
  • 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.
  • Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
  • Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
  • Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
  • Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
  • Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
  • Established comprehensive employee training programs to develop skills, improve productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.

Education

Criminology/Criminal Justice

The University of Maryland
01.1994

Skills

  • Community-focused marketing

  • Team leadership and collaborative team member

  • Cost management strategy

  • Skilled in troubleshooting challenges

  • Social media management

  • Supply chain coordination expertise

  • Strategic planning

  • Skilled at managing multiple tasks

  • Efficient time management

  • Employee development facilitation

  • Customer service management

  • Inventory management

Accomplishments

  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets to keep purchasing in line with budgets
  • Achieved a 3% or less gap between theoretical an actual food cost through effective inventory management.
  • Supervised and developed team of over 55 staff members and 3 departmental managers.
  • Staffing - Worked directly with Human Resources to streamline hiring, onboarding process, and developmental programs
  • Achieved an increase in social media scores through developing contests and strategies that encourage positive reviews
  • Maximized departmental productivity and achieved fiscal labor goals by creating and updating proformas based on guest flow
  • Prepared budgets and guided departmental managers and employees to consistently achieve financial targets and profitability.

Certification

ServeSafe Manager Certified - 2000 - 2024

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working

Timeline

General Manager, Kitchen Manager

Abuelos Mexican Embassy
08.2008 - 08.2023

Culinary, Sales Manager

Olive Garden
05.2003 - 05.2007

General Manager

Darrel's/Houlihan's
03.2000 - 04.2003

Criminology/Criminal Justice

The University of Maryland

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Matthew Rivera