Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Natalie Burke

Southington,CT

Summary

Dynamic Cafe Manager at David Alan Hospitality Group with a proven track record in customer engagement and food safety compliance. Skilled in optimizing operational efficiency and cost controls, I consistently enhanced guest satisfaction through effective problem-solving and team collaboration, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere and adherence to health regulations.

Experienced with managing all aspects of cafe operations, including staff training and customer service. Utilizes effective leadership to foster collaborative and efficient team environment. Track record of optimizing inventory management and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Cafe Manager

David Alan Hospitality Group
10.2024 - Current
  • Assisted in daily cafe operations, ensuring smooth service delivery and customer satisfaction.
  • Learned safety protocols and compliance standards for food handling and sanitation.
  • Supported inventory management by tracking supplies and placing orders as needed.
  • Provided excellent customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
  • Collaborated with team members to maintain the cleanliness and organization of cafe space.
  • Adapted quickly to changing priorities during busy service hours, optimizing workflow efficiency.
  • Gained experience using point-of-sale systems for processing transactions accurately.
  • Oversaw daily cafe operations to maintain smooth workflow in both front-of-house and back-of-house areas.
  • Trained cafe employees to consistently exceed customers' expectations and provide superior service.
  • Established a welcoming atmosphere, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and presentation throughout the cafe.
  • Handled business administration functions such as cash register counting, and supply ordering.
  • Ensured compliance with food safety regulations by implementing strict sanitation protocols and employee training initiatives.
  • Kept cafe in full compliance with health code standards and achieved consistent scores.
  • Secured daily cash by verifying totals and making nightly deposits.
  • Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.

Day of Concierge

Allstar Weddings
10.2023 - Current
  • Managed a variety of tasks simultaneously, maintaining professionalism and efficiency under pressure.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining a professional demeanor at all times.
  • Maximized guest satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and resolving issues.
  • Supported event planning efforts, contributing to the successful execution of memorable occasions.

Swim Instructor

Healthtrax Fitness
11.2013 - 03.2025
  • Instructed diverse groups in swimming techniques and water safety practices.
  • Developed individualized lesson plans to meet varying skill levels and learning styles.
  • Monitored swimmer progress, providing constructive feedback to enhance performance.
  • Created engaging lesson content to maintain student interest and motivation.
  • Trained and mentored junior instructors, fostering professional development within the team.
  • Collaborated with parents to discuss swimmer achievements and areas for improvement.
  • Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
  • Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
  • Promoted a fun learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
  • Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
  • Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
  • Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
  • Increased swimmer safety by enforcing pool rules and maintaining vigilant supervision during lessons.
  • Addressed behavioral issues promptly using a fair and consistent approach, fostering a respectful learning environment for all participants.
  • Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
  • Maintained control and safety of class and kept children in flotation always within arm's reach.
  • Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
  • Provided one-on-one instruction for students requiring additional assistance in mastering specific skills or techniques.
  • Instructed individual swim lessons, tailoring techniques to meet diverse skill levels and learning styles.
  • Developed personalized training programs to enhance students' swimming skills and water safety awareness.

Catering Server

The Lake House Catering
03.2022 - 09.2024
  • Delivered exceptional customer service during events, ensuring guest satisfaction and seamless dining experiences.
  • Set up and broke down catering equipment, maintaining organization and readiness for each event.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and presentation.
  • Assisted in training new servers on company protocols and service standards.


Banquet Captain

The Lake House Catering
05.2022 - 03.2024
  • Led banquet staff to ensure seamless event execution and exceptional guest service.
  • Coordinated with kitchen and service teams for efficient meal delivery during events.
  • Supervised setup and breakdown of banquet rooms, ensuring adherence to standards.
  • Mentored new staff on service protocols and event-specific requirements.
  • Monitored inventory levels, coordinating replenishment as needed for upcoming events.
  • Resolved guest issues promptly to maintain satisfaction and positive experiences.
  • Ensured compliance with safety regulations, maintaining a safe working environment for both staff and guests.
  • Coordinated with event planners for seamless event organization, leading to increased positive reviews.
  • Adapted quickly to last-minute changes, ensuring events proceeded smoothly despite unforeseen challenges.
  • Maintained clean and safe work environment.
  • Replenished condiments and other supplies at tables and service bars.

Food Server

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
05.2019 - 10.2022
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Managed food and beverage orders efficiently, coordinating with kitchen staff for timely delivery.
  • Trained new team members on menu items and service protocols to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area, adhering to health and safety standards.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly, fostering a positive dining experience and loyalty.
  • Monitored inventory levels, ensuring adequate stock to meet service demands during peak hours.
  • Followed food safety and sanitation guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses and promote customer health and safety.
  • Maintained cleanliness of working areas to create pleasant and inviting atmospheres for guests.
  • Efficiently balanced multiple tasks, prioritizing responsibilities for optimal performance during busy shifts.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and friendly food service.
  • Managed cash register accurately, ensuring proper handling of transactions and tips.
  • Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
  • Restocked supplies during downtime to continue meeting customer demand for products and services.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing several tables at once while maintaining high standards of service quality.
  • Pitched in with cleaning and closing tasks to keep restaurants running smoothly.
  • Communicated with kitchen staff clearly and accurately to deliver meals within desired timeframes.
  • Practiced good time management to deliver customers' prepared orders quickly and accurately.
  • Mastered menu knowledge to provide accurate information and helpful suggestions to guests.
  • Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.
  • Contributed positively to team morale through effective communication and cooperation with coworkers.
  • Supported management by completing daily side work tasks such as restocking supplies and cleaning duties.
  • Handled difficult customer situations professionally, resolving issues promptly and ensuring repeat business.
  • Provided exceptional service to large parties, coordinating with the team for smooth operations.
  • Increased sales by upselling appetizers, desserts, and specialty beverages.
  • Addressed dietary restrictions or allergies with care, communicating clearly with kitchen staff to avoid errors in meal preparation.
  • Participated in training and development to stay updated with company policies and procedures and improve customer service skills.
  • Conducted regular checks on table cleanliness and utensil supply, maintaining high standards of hygiene.
  • Assisted in hosting events, providing exceptional service to large groups and special occasions.
  • Executed daily opening and closing procedures, maintaining operational efficiency.
  • Increased repeat business by establishing personal rapport with regular customers.

Head Hostess

Locals 8 Restautant Holdings
05.2017 - 10.2022
  • Managed front-of-house operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and seamless service flow.
  • Trained and mentored new host staff, fostering a collaborative team environment.
  • Coordinated seating arrangements using reservation management software, optimizing table turnover rates.
  • Developed and implemented standard operating procedures for guest interactions, enhancing service consistency.
  • Established a welcoming atmosphere by greeting guests promptly and professionally upon arrival.
  • Streamlined the seating process for increased efficiency and reduced wait times for guests.
  • Took reservations by phone and walk-in, keeping scheduling demands, and kitchen output in time to avoid overbooking.
  • Documented reservations, alerted servers, and managers of large groups and prepared seating.
  • Participated in regular staff meetings to discuss operational improvements, share customer feedback, or address any challenges faced by the team.
  • Monitored seating area and checked restrooms regularly to keep spotless.
  • Developed strong relationships with returning guests, encouraging loyalty and driving repeat business.
  • Oversaw the dining room layout and table settings, ensuring compliance with restaurant standards and aesthetics.
  • Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times.
  • Maintained a clean, organized hostess stand, contributing to an inviting ambiance throughout the restaurant.
  • Provided support to servers during busy periods by assisting with drink orders or clearing tables as needed.
  • Served as a liaison between guests and management in addressing concerns or special requests in realtime.
  • Utilized knowledge of menu items to provide personalized recommendations based on guest preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Ensured that all opening/closing duties were completed accurately and thoroughly each shift for optimal daily operations.

Key Holder

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
01.2019 - 03.2022
  • Supervised daily operations to ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.
  • Trained and mentored new staff on service standards and operational efficiency.
  • Managed inventory control processes, minimizing waste and optimizing stock levels.
  • Implemented cash handling procedures to ensure accuracy during financial transactions.
  • Enhanced customer experience through effective conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Assisted with team responsibilities by cleaning, managing cash registers, and product merchandising.
  • Managed store personnel by delegating tasks and supervising daily operations.
  • Monitored associates throughout each assigned shift and professionally managed any challenges to maintain optimal store performance.
  • Engaged with customers to build rapport and promote long-term loyalty for increased sales.
  • Handled difficult situations calmly under pressure resolving conflicts between both customers and staff in a professional manner.

Event Coordinator

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
05.2019 - 01.2022
  • Managed logistics for events, ensuring seamless execution and adherence to timelines.
  • Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
  • Adapted quickly when faced with unexpected challenges or changes in plans, maintaining composure while finding effective solutions.
  • Managed event logistics and operations.
  • Established positive relationships with clients, ensuring their needs were met throughout the event planning process.
  • Developed event themes and designs that aligned with client visions and marketing objectives.
  • Led cross-functional teams in planning and executing large-scale events successfully.

Prep Cook

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
01.2019 - 01.2020
  • Prepared ingredients and ensured kitchen cleanliness for efficient food preparation.
  • Assisted chefs in executing menu items while maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Organized and maintained inventory to ensure timely availability of supplies.
  • Implemented safety protocols to minimize hazards during food preparation processes.
  • Conducted regular quality checks on ingredients, ensuring freshness and compliance with health standards.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple food stations simultaneously without compromising quality or speed.
  • Maintained clean, hygienic kitchen workspace by sweeping, mopping, and taking out trash.
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by maintaining a clean and organized workspace during busy shifts.
  • Contributed to a positive work atmosphere through effective communication and teamwork among staff members.
  • Reduced food waste by properly storing ingredients and monitoring expiration dates.
  • Followed orders from head chef to establish productive and timely preparation of meals.
  • Supported the success of daily operations by assisting chefs with ingredient prep work as needed.
  • Maintained optimal food quality by adhering to strict guidelines for food safety and sanitation.
  • Preserved freshness of food by storing food in designated containers and storage areas within freezer or refrigerator.
  • Operated dishwasher and manually washed dishes to clean all chinaware, silverware, and cooking utensils.
  • Collaborated with kitchen team, effectively communicating to streamline processes and optimize workflow.
  • Stocked inventory efficiently, enabling seamless transition between meal services.
  • Expedited food preparation for timely service by closely following chef''s instructions and prioritizing tasks.
  • Received shipments and placed items on proper shelves to restock and organize restaurant pantry.
  • Cultivated a safe working environment by consistently wearing appropriate protective gear and practicing safe handling techniques during food preparation tasks.
  • Provided support during peak business hours, ensuring smooth service flow while maintaining high-quality output.

Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, Lifeguard Instructor

Bristol Parks And Recreation
10.2009 - 12.2017
  • Supervised aquatic activities to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Responded quickly to emergencies, providing first aid and CPR as needed.
  • Conducted regular safety drills and equipment checks to maintain readiness.
  • Educated patrons on pool rules and safe swimming practices.
  • Monitored pool conditions, maintaining cleanliness and chemical balance.
  • Mentored junior lifeguards, enhancing team performance and knowledge sharing.
  • Learned and maintained proficiency in first responder skills such as First Aid and CPR to offer individuals in distress optimal support.
  • Ensured swimmer safety by vigilantly monitoring pool area and enforcing rules.
  • Provided friendly customer service to guests and addressed concerns.
  • Improved response times by conducting thorough lifeguard drills and training sessions.
  • Observed weather and water conditions and alerted visitors to potential dangers, storms.
  • Evaluated training materials, improving effectiveness and engagement in instructional methods.
  • Led emergency drills, fostering preparedness among staff and reinforcing best practices in crisis situations.

Waitstaff, Event Chef, Dishwasher

David Alan Hospitality Group
06.2013 - 04.2017
  • Maintained cleanliness and hygiene standards in compliance with health regulations throughout events.
  • Managed guest inquiries and special requests, enhancing overall event experience through personalized service.
  • Collaborated with event coordinators to execute detailed service plans tailored to client specifications.
  • Assisted in event setup and teardown, ensuring a smooth transition between functions.
  • Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
  • Delivered exceptional service by accommodating diverse dietary restrictions and special requests from clients.
  • Achieved seamless event execution by coordinating closely with event planners, vendors, and front-of-house staff.
  • Enabled smoother transitions between courses during multi-course events by effectively managing food plating and presentation timelines.
  • Operated industrial dishwashing equipment to ensure cleanliness and sanitation standards.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline processes and reduce turnaround time for clean dishes.
  • Kept kitchen areas neat and clean by removing trash and organizing supplies.
  • Followed supervisor instructions to complete tasks on time.
  • Kept work area clean, dry, and free of debris to prevent incidents and accidents.
  • Kept dishes, utensils and glassware clean and rotated following safety standards set by restaurant.
  • Completed extra cleaning work on garbage cans, racks, dry storage areas, and other fixtures to keep kitchen spotless.
  • Assisted with kitchen prep work to help operations run smoothly and meet customer needs.

Education

No Degree -

Tunxis Community College
Farmington, CT

Bristol Eastern High School
Bristol
06-2012

Skills

  • Customer engagement
  • Foodservice
  • Cost controls
  • Health and safety regulations
  • Continuous improvement
  • Order management
  • Operational efficiency
  • Food safety compliance

Timeline

Cafe Manager

David Alan Hospitality Group
10.2024 - Current

Day of Concierge

Allstar Weddings
10.2023 - Current

Banquet Captain

The Lake House Catering
05.2022 - 03.2024

Catering Server

The Lake House Catering
03.2022 - 09.2024

Food Server

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
05.2019 - 10.2022

Event Coordinator

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
05.2019 - 01.2022

Key Holder

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
01.2019 - 03.2022

Prep Cook

Locals 8 Restaurant Holdings
01.2019 - 01.2020

Head Hostess

Locals 8 Restautant Holdings
05.2017 - 10.2022

Swim Instructor

Healthtrax Fitness
11.2013 - 03.2025

Waitstaff, Event Chef, Dishwasher

David Alan Hospitality Group
06.2013 - 04.2017

Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, Lifeguard Instructor

Bristol Parks And Recreation
10.2009 - 12.2017

No Degree -

Tunxis Community College

Bristol Eastern High School

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Natalie Burke