Michelle Solano

I contribute to the efficient operation of the assigned unit by collaborating with operations to provide support, information, insights, analysis, and recommendations on matters related to guest service, menu development, creative event planning, revenue generation, and other functions related to Catering Sales. Consistently exceed team growth targets and revenue projections, drawing from my experience in Tier 2 Convention Center operations. My focus is on developing, implementing, and measuring revenue objectives outlined in the unit's annual marketing plan. Deliver business strategies and develop systems and procedures to enhance operational quality and team efficiency, while also evaluating suppliers to maintain cost controls and improve operations. Additionally, analyze reports to evaluate performance, develop targeted improvements, and implement changes, while supervising operations staff to ensure adherence to organizational policies and safety regulations. Developed Catering Sales Managers' growth by enhancing their sales through taught techniques and guidance. Identify and secure new clients and accounts by analyzing and tailoring catering products to specific needs, outlining desired goals, and preparing quotes for overall catering costs. Furthermore, participate in planning meetings, site visits, and vendor evaluations to improve the quality of client services. Collaborate with Executive Chef to diversify menu with new offerings and manage escalated customer concerns promptly and with knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.

Oversee all aspects of catering sales, event planning, and event execution along with menu development and creation. With a strong background in food and beverage, excelling in client relations and employment communications, ensuring seamless event execution and client satisfaction.

Key Achievements:

• Successfully increased catering sales revenue by 24% within the first year of tenure.
• Implemented new client retention strategies, resulting in a 15% increase in repeat business.
• Led a team of 24 to achieve a customer satisfaction rating of 96%, exceeding company benchmarks.
• Continuously achieved forecasting goals.
• Collaborated with marketing team to create promotional materials and social media campaigns that attracted new clients.
• Analyzed sales trends to identify areas for improvement and implement targeted strategies to achieve goals.
• Fostered a collaborative, results-driven team environment that consistently met and exceeded quarterly sales targets.
• Led a team of sales professionals, providing guidance and support for their professional growth and success.

• General Mgmt. of Main Hotel Restaurant
• Developed relationships with suppliers and vendors leading to special volume pricing discounts and availability.
• Identified areas of opportunity for beverage sales by analyzing customer feedback and product demand metrics.
• Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations and contract details.
• Implemented operational strategies and effectively built customer and employee loyalty.
• Maximized operational excellence mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices and company procedures.
• Oversaw proper disposal of unused and tainted beverage stock, adhering to related health and safety guidelines.
• Enacted progressive disciplinary measures for staff, managed work zones, and oversaw opening and closing duties.
• Conducted hands-on training for equipment, demonstrating proper technique and safety protocols.

• Private Events & Catering:
• Personally responsible for sales volume
• Manager escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
• Finalize requirements of confirmed bookings while maximizing revenue through up selling and ensuring effective communication both written (Resumes, BEO, Daily Reports) and personal contact with all departments, oversee, manage, and develop full-time staff along with managing multiple 3rd party vendors.
• Work with State Parks on special permits, special requests, and high-profile filming.
• Managed venue, labor and technical efforts of internal and external partners to successfully execute hundreds of events per year.
• AGM:
• Manage $15mill location.
• Overview of financials / P&L's.
• Created innovative marketing and advertising campaigns to promote restaurant promotional offers and increase brand awareness.
• Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
• Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
• Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
• Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
• Evaluated suppliers to maintain cost controls and improve operations.