Nic D Waldron
Milwaukee,WI
Summary
Service-driven Head Bartender drawing from broad knowledge of cocktails, craft beers and whiskeys to provide targeted, customer-oriented service. Detailed inventory manager, coordinating product stocking and shipments. Team-oriented leader with clear communication and collaborative approach to workplace administration.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Bartender
Nightly Buzz
Green Bay, WI
11.2025 - 02.2026
- Supervised bar operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Developed cocktail recipes, enhancing customer satisfaction and engagement.
- Trained and mentored junior bartenders, promoting skill development and teamwork.
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock control and reducing waste.
- Successfully advocated for more non-alcoholic beer and beverage options.
Producer & On-Air Talent
WXRW-FM (Riverwest Radio)
Milwaukee, WI
09.2012 - Current
- Produced two programs which I hosted while serving as guest host and panelist on several others.
- Co-produced and hosted "There Goes The Neighborhood." A 90-minute block of locally-focused infotainment which was the station's longest running program before Covid.
- Presented production ideas and determined creative scenarios for production and delivery.
- Organized and hosted fund-raisers to help the station buy an FM tower.
- Developed production plans and organized resources to achieve prompt delivery of projects.
- Liaised with directors, guests and other creative staff to successfully complete projects.
Assistant GM
Rebel & Rye Whiskey Bar
Chicago, IL
09.2021 - 09.2025
- Worked with a stock of over 300 high end and craft whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches.
- Served as the house's designated "whiskey specialist" based on my previous experience.
- Key holder performing opening and closing duties, printing nightly reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
- Used art skills to create eye-catching sandwich board designs to promote specials.
- Maintained secure cash drawers, promptly resolving discrepancies in daily totals.
Lead Bartender & Shift Manager
Prohibition Cigars & Spirits
Green Bay, WI
05.2019 - 07.2021
- Learned about different types of fine cigars, and how to pair them with our selection of over 70 bourbons and scotches.
- Crafted special drink and cocktail menu items for seasonal offerings. Including working directly with a distributor on a "beertail" (beer cocktail) menu.
- Managed social media account and worked with local photographers for to promote the establishment and products.
- Handled simultaneous customer, team, and business needs while avoiding unnecessary delays or errors.
- Kept detailed inventories and notified management of ordering needs for liquor, beer, wine, and bar supplies.
Lead Bartender
Up-Down MKE
Milwaukee, WI
08.2018 - 04.2019
- Worked with a menu featuring a selection of over 60 rotating craft beers.
- Coordinated special events and promotions such as gaming tournaments while working with sponsors and radio stations.
- Trained seven new bartenders on drink preparation, product promotion, garnish preparation, and sanitation protocol.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism, Advertising, & Media Studies
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WISkills
- Classic Cocktails
- Craft Beer, Whiskeys, and Bourbons
- Cigar Pairings
- Special Promotions Planning
- Advertising and Social Media Initiatives
- Graphic Art & Design in Multiple Mediums
Additional Information
Recently moved back to Milwaukee from Chicago after four years. Seeking a bartending position that will enable me to resume my work in local radio on the side, and willing to discuss ways I could use my platform to promote the establishment.
Timeline
Lead Bartender
Nightly Buzz
11.2025 - 02.2026
Assistant GM
Rebel & Rye Whiskey Bar
09.2021 - 09.2025
Lead Bartender & Shift Manager
Prohibition Cigars & Spirits
05.2019 - 07.2021
Lead Bartender
Up-Down MKE
08.2018 - 04.2019
Producer & On-Air Talent
WXRW-FM (Riverwest Radio)
09.2012 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism, Advertising, & Media Studies
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee