MATTHEW THOMAS
Aberdeen,NC
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with over 20 years of hands-on experience as a chef, bartender, merchandiser, and area sales manager. Proven ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences, drive sales growth, and manage operations efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for building strong client relationships and delivering measurable results across diverse markets.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Merchandiser
Healy Wholesale
Fayetteville, NC
11.2025 - Current
- Developed visually appealing displays that increased customer engagement and boosted sales revenue.
- Removed damaged, out-of-code, not-in-set and discontinued items from displays.
- Answered customer questions regarding store merchandise, department information, and pricing.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing product knowledge and recommending suitable items based on individual needs.
- Assisted customers in locating desired items or suggesting suitable alternatives when necessary, contributing to an elevated shopping experience.
- Arranged consistent shelves, bins, and racks at nine locations by following established planograms.
Bartender/Barback
Red's Corner
Southern Pines, NC
03.2023 - Current
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
- Assisted with staff training, sharing expertise in bartending techniques and customer service best practices.
Area Sales Manager and Delivery Driver
Southern Pines Brewing Company
Southern Pines, NC
12.2021 - 11.2025
- Built lasting relationships with clients through outstanding customer service interactions.
- Provided exceptional customer service to existing clients through regular communication and prompt resolution of issues or concerns raised by them.
- Established strong relationships with key clients, resulting in increased customer retention and satisfaction.
Chef
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
Aberdeen, NC
02.2021 - 12.2021
- Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality culinary creations.
- Adapted menus seasonally, incorporating fresh produce to create visually appealing and flavorful dishes.
- Mentored junior chefs in culinary techniques, fostering a collaborative and learning-focused work environment.
Sous Chef
Curt's Cucina/Grinders and Gravy
Southern Pines, NC
02.2018 - 02.2021
- Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Played a key role in achieving positive health inspection results by maintaining strict compliance with all relevant guidelines and regulations throughout daily operations.
- Implemented proper cleaning procedures, ensuring a safe and sanitary kitchen workspace compliant with health department regulations.
Nutrition Care Specialist (68M)
United States Army Reserve
Fort Bragg, NC
2004 - 2012
- Collaborated with a Registered Dietitian to develop customized diets and nutritionally balanced menus tailored to individual patient needs
- Educated patients and clients on wellness, nutrition, and healthy food choices to promote long-term well-being
- Delivered nutritious, well-balanced meals to military service members, their families, retirees, and veterans in both field and fixed hospital environments
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts
Sandhills Community College
Pinehurst, NCAssociate of Applied Science - Hotel And Restaurant Management
Sandhills Community College
Pinehurst, NCHigh School Diploma -
Lee County Senior High School
Sanford, NCSkills
- Relationship building
- Territory management
- Product demonstration
- Brand promotion
- Time management
- Staff training and development
Timeline
Merchandiser
Healy Wholesale
11.2025 - Current
Bartender/Barback
Red's Corner
03.2023 - Current
Area Sales Manager and Delivery Driver
Southern Pines Brewing Company
12.2021 - 11.2025
Chef
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
02.2021 - 12.2021
Sous Chef
Curt's Cucina/Grinders and Gravy
02.2018 - 02.2021
Nutrition Care Specialist (68M)
United States Army Reserve
2004 - 2012
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts
Sandhills Community College
Associate of Applied Science - Hotel And Restaurant Management
Sandhills Community College
High School Diploma -
Lee County Senior High School