Paul J. Wagner
Chicago,IL
Summary
Strategic-thinking individual experienced in turning low-performing organizations into top revenue producers. Offering engaging and pleasant personality with expertise improving customer relationships. Encouraging manager and analytical problem-solver with talents for team building, leading and motivating, as well as excellent customer relations aptitude and relationship-building skills. Proficient in using independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated to applying training, monitoring and morale-building abilities to enhance employee engagement and boost performance.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Beverage, Bar Lead, Beverage Consultant
Somos Hospitality Group
02.2023 - 06.2024
- I began my work with Somos Hospitality as Beverage Consultant for Bar program design and opening of Ummo Chicago from February 2023 to April 2023. As beverage consultation finished I accepted the role of Bar Lead for Tzuco as we waited for Ummo to open in August 2023. During this time I assisted management with refining and elevating service and production at Tzuco. Ummo opened in August 2023 where I transitioned to bar lead of Ummo for opening and through December, I continued to assist in all program service and beverage needs. Starting New Year's Eve I accepted the beverage director role for Somos Hospitality. As beverage director, I reduced standing inventory by $40,000, increased beverage profitability by Reducing cost from 38% to 8%, as well as brought in additional brand support of over $100,000 for the beverage program
Bar Manager
Untitled Supper Club
10.2021 - 04.2022
- Strategized plans to increase bar revenue through innovative promotional concepts, specialty drinks, and customer-focused events.
- Enhanced guest experience with meticulous attention to detail in bar setup, presentation, and drink preparation.
- Developed productive relationships with vendors to secure competitive pricing on high-quality products.
- Increased revenue by optimizing pricing strategies, offering seasonal specials, and upselling premium products.
- Strengthened team performance with regular coaching sessions, performance evaluations, and constructive feedback.
- Established rapport with patrons through personalized service that consistently exceeded expectations resulting in repeat business.
- Maintained a comprehensive knowledge of current industry trends to stay ahead of competition and offer an exceptional experience for guests.
Bar Director
Guild Row
10.2020 - 08.2021
- Managed all aspects of daily operations including opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and staff scheduling.
- Led staff meetings to discuss sales goals, upcoming events, and areas for improvement which strengthened team communication and overall performance.
- Established strong relationships with local breweries to offer unique craft beer selections that attracted new clientele.
- Created a welcoming atmosphere by maintaining a clean, organized, and visually appealing bar environment.
Brand Ambassador
Coquetel Spirits, National - Illinois
11.2019 - 05.2020
- Increased positive word-of-mouth referrals through genuine, personalized customer interactions and excellent product knowledge.
- Enhanced brand recognition by executing promotional events and engaging customers with product demonstrations.
- Delivered memorable experiences at trade shows through expert knowledge of products, engaging booth design, and compelling interactions with attendees.
- Developed lasting connections with industry professionals through networking at conferences, workshops, and other relevant gatherings.
- Educated consumers about product benefits, leading to increased interest and sales conversions.
Beverage Director
The Northcott Liquorette
10.2018 - 07.2019
- Identified areas of opportunity for beverage sales by analyzing customer feedback and product demand metrics.
- Managed inventory effectively, reducing waste and improving cost efficiency.
- Improved employee retention through effective hiring practices and ongoing staff development programs.
- Held beverage area and workers to high standard of cleanliness and service.
- Optimized bar layout to improve workflow efficiency without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction with unique and creative drink menus tailored to individual preferences.
- Fostered a positive team atmosphere that encouraged collaboration among staff members.
- Developed comprehensive training materials that increased bartender proficiency in both product knowledge and customer service skills.
- Trained bartenders on mixology techniques, ensuring consistent and high-quality beverages across the establishment.
Education
Instrumental Music Education
Shorter University
Rome, GAHigh School Graduate -
Pepperell High School, Floyd County College And Career
Rome,GA05.2011
Skills
- Excellence in classic And craft cocktails
- Highly knowledgeable sales and customer Service
- Confident public speaker and educator
- World-class Percussionist and Instructor
- Staff Development
- Contract and Vendor Management
- Verbal and written communication
- Budget Management
Accomplishments
- US Bartenders GuildMember
- CRT Certified inTequila and Agave
- Ardbeg Master OfSmoke
- Published in Forbes, American Whiskey Mag, Chilled Magazine Eater, Alcohol Professor, Vinepair, and The Daily Herald
- Winner of “Best Martini in the Burbs” and Best Presentation for “Rooftop on The Wit” cocktail competition 2019
- Nine national music tours as a performer and an educator
References
REFERENCES
German Gonzalez - Somos Hospitality Group Owner/CEO (347) 685-5236 GGR@SomosHG.com
Chiyo Takemoto - Coquetel Spirits Owner/Founder (775) 517-9102 Chiyo@coquetelspirits.com
Joe Manna - Atomic Group (Untitled, Recess, Tabu, Morgan MFG, City Hall Events, Artifact Events) Chief Operations Officer (847) 276-6578 Joe@AtomicHG.com
Evan Fuller - Guild Row General Manager (413) 427-1631
Timeline
Director of Beverage, Bar Lead, Beverage Consultant
Somos Hospitality Group
02.2023 - 06.2024
Bar Manager
Untitled Supper Club
10.2021 - 04.2022
Bar Director
Guild Row
10.2020 - 08.2021
Brand Ambassador
Coquetel Spirits, National - Illinois
11.2019 - 05.2020
Beverage Director
The Northcott Liquorette
10.2018 - 07.2019
Instrumental Music Education
Shorter University
High School Graduate -
Pepperell High School, Floyd County College And Career
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