Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Work Preference
Work Availability
Software
Interests
Timeline
Volunteer
Max P. Apodaca

Max P. Apodaca

Orlando,FL

Summary

Accomplished professional with a strong track record in overseeing and leading extensive operations, consistently achieving success through careful strategic planning and execution. Skilled at introducing creative solutions that improve productivity and operational efficiency. Recognized for promoting collaboration among team members and adjusting to changing business requirements to maintain alignment with company objectives.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Head of Auto Museum & Director of Food & Bev

Orlando Auto Museum / Dezerland Park Orlando
09.2020 - 10.2024

- Led the Orlando Auto Museum, one of the nation's largest privately owned auto collections.

- Directed guest experience, museum operations, and strategic development.

- Assumed control of all Food Hall, Restaurant, and Catering operations in May 2023.

- Overhauled menus, vendor contracts, and event catering to improve profitability and satisfaction.

- Coordinated cross-departmental promotions to drive traffic and sales.

- Developed and executed cross-functional campaigns boosting both museum attendance and F&B revenue.

- Renegotiated all food vendor contracts, reducing total food hall costs by over 37%.

- Maintained exceptional catering profit margins ranging from 68% to 81%.

- Built and led a high-performing catering team; personally chefed events for 10 to 500 guests.

- Initiated and organized recurring car shows to increase public engagement and drive traffic.

- Managed a $5K/month advertising and marketing budget, generating $92,000+ in monthly sales from $5000

  • Directed strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and drive organizational growth.
  • Developed and executed comprehensive business plans aligned with corporate objectives and market trends.
  • Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
  • Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.

General Manager

Comfort Inn & Suites
12.2012 - 05.2020
  • Hired to reduce operating expenses and increase sales.
  • Created and implemented continuous process improvements to ensure optimal efficiency and productivity throughout hotel.
  • Raised hotel rank within 1 year from bottom 1% to top 33% of all Comfort Inn brand properties
  • Increased gross revenue 115% since 2012.
  • Increased revenue consistently each year.
  • Increased Occupancy from 68.20% in 2012 to 94.19% YTD 2018
  • Increased ADR from $81.14 in 2012 to $107.58 YTD 2018
  • Effectively managed two renovations from start to finish in 2013 and 2014, with a total cost of $1.1 million.
  • Awarded Expedia’s “Most Improved Partner – 2014.”
  • Featured at Choice Hotel Convention, for ROI on Remodel.
  • Consistently earned high 90’s for all LRA inspections.
  • Worked with each employee to enhance problem-resolution and guest satisfaction skills.
  • Weekly STR Report 2-3 to 2-09 – Occp % Index 119.6, ADR Index 100.1, RevPar Index 119.8
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and high service standards.
  • Developed and implemented operational strategies to optimize efficiency and profitability.

Co-Owner

Cars and Coffee Palm Beach
06.2013 - 09.2019

• Grew local automotive event from 35 vehicles to 3500 vehicles per month, the world's largest cars and coffee event.

• Increased spectator ship to 35,000 show-goers each monthly gathering.

• Increased coverage of the event to 40 million people per month, just on the business social media pages and national email newsletters.

• Recruited, trained, and managed marketing and logistics team of 28 who work before, during, and after the events.

• Worked closely with the marketing team to constantly fine-tune website information, social media pages, promotions, and campaigns.

• Coordinated accommodations, transportation, and special needs for Showcase Corner displays and featured guests.

• Forged relationships with local and national media in order to promote the events, as well as the vendors, charities, and other partners of the event.

• Acted as liaison between the auto event company and the county and venue in order to resolve any issues, and ensure the event benefited all three parties.

• Increased shopping traffic and revenue at the venue by 30-40%.

• Consistently worked with marketing and customer service teams to enhance show-goer experiences and create solutions for any issues.

  • Directed daily operations, ensuring streamlined processes and efficient resource allocation.
  • Oversaw staff training programs to enhance team performance and customer satisfaction.

Director of Sales; Food & Beverage Director

Wingate by Wyndham
08.2011 - 09.2012
  • Assisted with all facets of daily operations, strategy, and management.
  • Achieved record-high customer satisfaction scores and hotel profits within 2 months of work.
  • Exceeded sales goals by 32% in the First Quarter.
  • Devised, coordinated, and implemented special marketing campaigns via media, social media, mail and call campaigns, parties, trade shows, and lead and on-site events to increase occupancy and ADR.
  • Utilized Hotelligence and other statistical reports to identify and develop new opportunities to gain market share.
  • Advised hotel owner monthly, which included annual operating budgets, financial plans, and marketing plans/allocation.
  • Increased Rev-Par Maximization and Yield Management. Increased RevPar over 17% in 2011 from same period in 2010.
  • Created special menus for Manager Receptions, occasions, and events. Created customized menus to attract guest groups, as well as maximize hotel profits.
  • Identified operational issues that reduce: the effectiveness of marketing activities, customer satisfaction, and overall hotel sales performance. Worked with appropriate team members and departments to find effective solutions.
  • Selected as 1 of 3 hotels to host ongoing Super Bowl festivities in 2012 for NFL Alumni: Personally Cheffed the VIP events, and food was voted best of NFL Alumni sites.
  • Led strategic sales initiatives to increase market share and revenue growth.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive sales strategies for enhanced client acquisition.

Food and Beverage Director

Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro
04.2011 - 07.2011
  • Streamlined overall kitchen and foodservice operations, and managed catering for elite clients from the sports, entertainment, and business communities.
  • Developed and implemented cost controls while consistently meeting quality and sanitation standards.
  • Maintained accuracy in ordering and inventory.
  • Analyzed job requirements to effectively hire and train new employees.
  • Coordinated food and beverage planning and service operations for banquets, private parties, and catering events.
  • Authored front-of-house and back-of-house employee handbooks, training manuals, and succession plans to coach and mentor staff to fullest potential.
  • Directed food and beverage operations, ensuring exceptional service standards across all dining venues.
  • Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
  • Led cross-functional teams in executing large-scale events, optimizing resource allocation and workflow processes.
  • Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts to secure high-quality products at competitive pricing.

Pro - Am Cyclist

PRO-AM Cyclist – Texas Roadhouse & Velo Sports
03.2009 - 11.2010
  • Traveled United States with Team to compete in long distance and criterium races.
  • Collaborated with coaches to refine race strategies and optimize competitive advantages.
  • Analyzed race data to identify areas for improvement and implement strategic adjustments.
  • Mentored aspiring young cyclists providing guidance on aspects like proper technique nutritional requirements career development opportunities.

Assistant General Manager

Cambria Suites
04.2008 - 02.2009
  • Worked directly with the General Manager to manage all activities of the property, including employees, maintenance, sales, food and beverage, and profit/loss controls.
  • Addressed goal-setting, motivation/disciplinary employee issues, labor expense control, general expense control, and guest issue resolution in accordance with the company goals.
  • Coordinated, directed, and managed the hotel operations to achieve maximum profitability, ensure guest satisfaction, protect the financial aspects of the business, and maintain the building/property.
  • Directly planned, implemented, and managed the hotel from inception. Hotel opened with a 95% score, the highest opening score at that time.
  • Led cross-functional teams to implement service improvement initiatives, fostering collaboration and accountability.
  • Managed budgeting processes, ensuring alignment with operational goals and financial targets.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with health regulations and corporate standards.
  • Handled cash accurately and prepared deposits.
  • Motivated, trained, and disciplined employees to maximize performance.
  • Collaborated with the General Manager on marketing initiatives to increase brand awareness and drive sales growth.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving concerns in a timely manner.
  • Resolved problems promptly to elevate customer approval.
  • Oversaw inventory management processes to maintain proper stock levels and minimize spoilage or waste.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control for optimal profitability.
  • Ensured compliance with all health department regulations by implementing strict sanitation guidelines throughout the establishment.
  • Assisted in the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process for new employees to build a skilled workforce committed to excellence in service delivery.

General Manager, Voting Member, Partner

Best Western Madison
11.2003 - 03.2008
  • Oversaw operations and maximized profitability of a 84-room, full-service hotel property.
  • Maintained hotel and restaurant facilities as well as 3,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.
  • Devised and implemented key strategies to ensure each guest had an exceptional experience.
  • Developed and administered annual operating and capital budgets.
  • Increased gross operating profits, despite a decrease in revenues due to remodeling.
  • Provided each guest with an exceptional stay, which facilitated an increase in the average daily rate by 22%.
  • Propelled market share by pushing the market penetration index to exceed 102%, as reported by Smith Travel.
  • Developed and implemented renovation plan for hotel.
  • Had full responsibility for all monthly, quarterly, and yearly taxes.
  • Designed accounting system for hotel using QuickBooks.
  • Designed kitchen and restaurant layout and purchased all necessary equipment.
  • Designed Accounting system for company using QuickBooks and created profit and loss set-up.
  • Implemented an aggressive marketing and advertising play by using radio, highway billboards, road signage, travel center signage and direct mailing.
  • Streamlined front desk operations, improving check-in and check-out efficiency.
  • Analyzed market trends/data to identify potential opportunities for business growth within existing or emerging markets successfully.

General Manager

Best Western Scottsburg Inn
04.2000 - 10.2003
  • Directed operational strategies to enhance guest satisfaction and improve service delivery.
  • Implemented cost-control measures that optimized budget management and resource allocation.
  • Developed marketing initiatives that increased local visibility and drove occupancy rates.
  • Oversaw maintenance programs ensuring facility compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
  • Fostered partnerships with local businesses to enhance community engagement and promotional efforts.
  • Analyzed market trends to inform pricing strategies and competitive positioning of services.
  • Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.

Assistant Food and Beverage Director

Wyndham Hotel, A Meristar property
07.1998 - 04.2000
  • Collaborated with culinary team to create seasonal menus, improving guest satisfaction.
  • Developed and implemented operational standards to enhance food service quality.
  • Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing waste and optimizing supply chain efficiency.
  • Mentored staff on customer service excellence, fostering a positive dining experience.
  • Analyzed guest feedback to identify areas for service improvement and training needs.
  • Coordinated special events and banquets, ensuring seamless execution and high guest engagement.
  • Managed vendor relationships to secure quality products at competitive prices while maintaining budgetary constraints.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and promoting professional development among team members.
  • Conducted thorough market research to identify emerging trends in foodservice industry; incorporated findings into strategic planning processes.
  • Oversaw catering services for special events, coordinating logistics and staffing needs to ensure seamless execution of functions.
  • Improved overall guest experience with attentive service, consistently meeting or exceeding expectations.
  • Evaluated employee performance regularly, providing constructive feedback to foster professional growth within the team.
  • Boosted sales by designing appealing promotional events and creating enticing limited-time offers.
  • Actively sought feedback from guests; utilized this input to drive continuous improvement efforts and ensure consistently high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Maintained accurate financial records, monitoring budgetary constraints while still delivering exceptional guest experiences.
  • Managed multi-department teams effectively, facilitating clear communication between kitchen staff, servers, bartenders, and support personnel.
  • Collaborated with chefs to develop seasonal menus that showcased fresh ingredients and appealed to diverse clientele.

Education

BA - Culinary Arts

Johnson And Wales
Providence, Rhode Island

Skills

Hotel Maintenance and Upkeep

  • Food and Beverage Development
  • Comprehensive Banquet Experience
  • On and Off- Premise Catering
  • Menu Development/Design/Positioning
  • Wine/Liquor Development
  • Hotel Engineering
  • Social Media Marketing (Facebook-Instagram-Snapchat - Tik Tok)
  • Team Coordination
  • Personnel Development
  • Profit and Goal Setting
  • Inventory Control/Analysis
  • Hotel Housekeeping
  • Property Planning
  • Accounting
  • Franchise Relations
  • Operation/Employee Manuals
  • Supervision
  • Staff Recruiting/Training
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Chatgpt - Gemini - Claude
  • Prompt Engineering
  • Coding
  • Testing and debugging
  • Machine learning
  • API integration
  • Coding standards
  • Scripting languages
  • API development
  • Deep learning techniques
  • Python programming
  • Git version control
  • Automated testing
  • Natural language processing
  • Chatbot development
  • PyTorch library
  • Speech recognition
  • Conversational AI
  • Microsoft dynamics 365

Certification

  • Certified Hotel Owner (CHO)
  • Member of American Culinary Federation
  • Certified Serv-Safe with National Restaurant Association
  • Knowledgeable with Nova Plus, Profit Manager, Fidelio, Visual Matrix, Holidex, Sable
  • Extremely Computer Literate with all types of Hardware and Software
  • TIPS certified
  • CPR certified

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working
Italian
Professional Working

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimePart TimeContract Work

Work Location

RemoteHybridOn-Site

Important To Me

Work-life balanceCompany CulturePersonal development programsHealthcare benefits

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Software

Microsoft

Photoshop

SalesForce

Aloha POS

Square

Clover

Canva

N8N - Make - Lovable

Google

Interests

Cycling

Coding

Artificial Intelligence

Cooking

Analytics

People

Timeline

Head of Auto Museum & Director of Food & Bev

Orlando Auto Museum / Dezerland Park Orlando
09.2020 - 10.2024

Co-Owner

Cars and Coffee Palm Beach
06.2013 - 09.2019

General Manager

Comfort Inn & Suites
12.2012 - 05.2020

Director of Sales; Food & Beverage Director

Wingate by Wyndham
08.2011 - 09.2012

Food and Beverage Director

Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro
04.2011 - 07.2011

Pro - Am Cyclist

PRO-AM Cyclist – Texas Roadhouse & Velo Sports
03.2009 - 11.2010

Assistant General Manager

Cambria Suites
04.2008 - 02.2009

General Manager, Voting Member, Partner

Best Western Madison
11.2003 - 03.2008

General Manager

Best Western Scottsburg Inn
04.2000 - 10.2003

Assistant Food and Beverage Director

Wyndham Hotel, A Meristar property
07.1998 - 04.2000

BA - Culinary Arts

Johnson And Wales