NIko Kennedy
Phoenix,Arizona
Summary
Innovative, client-centered, and goal-oriented professional, offering extensive experience in providing the highest quality of hospitality and banquet services to customers and guests. Adept at identifying and addressing needs and requests through proactive interaction with guests. Expert at performing wide-ranging tasks involving beverage event orders, as well as table setting and clearing. Highly effective at creating and maintaining relationships with various individuals to ensure positive client outcomes and service excellence.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Banquet Server
Fairmont Princess
01.2016 - Current
- Display knowledge and skills in preparing beverage event orders
- Efficiently fulfill various hospitality functions which include organizing and setting tables, serving three to four course dinners, as well as carrying evaluations
- Promptly accommodate all guests, while determining and responding to requests and needs
- Establish and maintain relationships with guests and staff
- Earned distinction for receiving the Employee of the Month award numerous times for exemplifying outstanding performance in accomplishing duties and responsibilities
Room Service/Banquet Server/Bartender
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
05.2010 - Current
- Managed organization and upkeep of trays and tables to enhance dining experience.
- Facilitated prompt order fulfillment to enhance customer experience.
- Monitored adherence to health and safety regulations to guarantee timely task completion.
- Executed efficient table settings for various event styles, including formal dinners and casual receptions.
- Prepared and served specialty cocktails, showcasing knowledge of mixology and beverage pairings.
- Maintained a well-organized bar area, restocking supplies as needed to ensure smooth service.
- Served appetizers, delivered entrees, and refilled beverages for banquet guests.
- Responded to guest inquiries and requests promptly and courteously.
- Handled special dietary requests, ensuring all guests received appropriate meals according to their preferences or restrictions.
Premium Suite Server
Levy Restaurants
2022 - 2024
- Exhibited comprehensive knowledge of menu offerings, providing tailored dish recommendations based on customer preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Efficiently managed the removal of dish trays and carts from rooms, ensuring discretion and professionalism.
- Provided comprehensive responses to inquiries regarding menu item ingredients and preparation techniques.
- Ensured guest safety by adhering to established food handling protocols.
- Upheld the establishment''s reputation for excellent service by consistently adhering to its standards and protocols.
Banquet Server
Westin Kierland Resort and Spa
03.2002 - 05.2014
- Exemplified competency in delivering the highest quality of service to customers
- Drove efforts in identifying and addressing wishes and needs of guests
- Demonstrated exceptional teamwork by collaborating with fellow servers to maintain a smooth flow of service during large-scale events.
- Carried out professional service, retaining polite and friendly approach at all times.
- Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
- Anticipated guests' needs by promptly refilling drinks and addressing special requests during events.
- Executed efficient table maintenance, including clearing and resetting tables as needed during events.
Banquet Bartender/Banquet Server
Ritz-Carlton
1991 - 1996
- Delivered exceptional beverage service during high-volume events, ensuring timely and accurate order fulfillment.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar area, adhering to strict hygiene and safety standards.
- Executed efficient beverage preparation, showcasing expertise in mixology and crafting specialty cocktails.
- Monitored inventory levels to ensure adequate supply of beverages and bar essentials throughout events.
- Provided personalized service, establishing rapport with guests to create memorable experiences.
- Set up glassware, liquor, and other necessary supplies for special events.
- Collaborated with banquet staff to ensure seamless event execution, resulting in increased client satisfaction and repeat business.
- Promoted positive customer experiences with attentive service, engaging conversations, and strong problem-solving skills.
Banquet Bartender,Server
Four Seasons
1999 - 2002
- Oversaw table setup, transportation, and clearing processes to maintain a clean and organized dining environment.
- Maintained active communication with guests to enhance overall satisfaction and experience.
- Ensured a hygienic environment for guests by maintaining cleanliness and organization of bar area.
- Executed prompt beverage service, ensuring timely fulfillment of drink orders during high-volume events.
- Maintained an organized and sanitary bar environment, adhering to cleanliness and safety standards.
- Demonstrated expertise in crafting a variety of cocktails, enhancing guest satisfaction and experience.
- Provided attentive service by monitoring guest tables and ensuring timely beverage refills and food delivery.
- Maintained knowledge of wine and cocktail pairings to enhance the guest dining experience.
- Facilitated special requests for dietary restrictions, ensuring all guests received appropriate meal options.
- Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
Education
Degree in Course Title - undefined
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WISkills
- Housekeeping and General Maintenance
- Safety Standards Compliance
- Events Planning and Coordination
- Back of House Operations
- Orders and Request Preparation
- Catering Functions and Duties
Professional Development
Service is the Product that I’m Selling | Service! Welcome, Comply, Farewell
Timeline
Banquet Server
Fairmont Princess
01.2016 - Current
Room Service/Banquet Server/Bartender
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
05.2010 - Current
Banquet Server
Westin Kierland Resort and Spa
03.2002 - 05.2014
Degree in Course Title - undefined
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Premium Suite Server
Levy Restaurants
2022 - 2024
Banquet Bartender/Banquet Server
Ritz-Carlton
1991 - 1996
Banquet Bartender,Server
Four Seasons
1999 - 2002