Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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SAMMANTHA RIVERA

Zephyrhills,Fl

Summary

Dynamic hospitality leader with over ten years of experience in restaurants and retail management. Known for a results-driven approach rooted in empathy, inclusive leadership and a strong focus in talent development. Adept at creating exceptional guest experiences, driving operational excellence and building high-performing teams.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Community Engagement Specialist

Girls Scouts of Tropical Florida-Miami, Fl
Miami, Fl
04.2025 - 06.2025
  • Promote Girl Scout membership by delivering in-person presentations to recruit girls and adult volunteers across diverse community settings (e.g., schools, faith organizations, community centers).
  • Communicate the value of Girl Scouting to potential members using approved scripts, emphasizing its benefits and impact on individuals and communities
  • Ensure inclusivity by reaching out to girls and families from various socioeconomic backgrounds across an eight-county region.
  • Assist with event logistics and follow-up, helping to prepare for recruitment events and supporting post-event membership conversion.

Restaurant Manager

Velvet Taco- Fort Lauderdale, Fl
Fort Lauderdale, Fl
11.2023 - 04.2025
  • Lead all aspects of daily operations, ensuring consistent food quality and service standards.
  • Drive team performance through effective hiring, training, and recognition programs.
  • Analyze P&L reports to exceed financial goals and streamline operations.
  • Champion a five-star guest experience through service excellence and team engagement.

Assistant Manager

California Pizza Kitchen-Ft Lauderdale, Fl
Ft Lauderdale, Fl
12.2020 - 04.2023
  • Fostered a people-first culture, inspiring teams to excel in hospitality and culinary performance.
  • Mentored team members promoting cross-training and career development
  • Drove profitability by managing labor costs, portion control, and budget adherence
  • Ensured compliance with all health and safety regulations and sanitation standards

Server/Bartender

DoubleTree by Hilton- Ft Lauderdale, Fl
Ft Lauderdale, Fl
12.2019 - 03.2020
  • Delivered personalized service by assessing guest preferences and making tailored recommendations.
  • Maintained detailed knowledge of menu offerings, spirits, and wine pairings.
  • Supported team efficiency through proactive collaboration and a clean, organized work area.

Assistant Store Manager-Acting Store Manager

Cole Haan- Ft Lauderdale, Fl / Aventura, Fl
Ft Lauderdale, Fl
09.2014 - 12.2019
  • Led store operations and guided the team through all aspects of customer service and sales.
  • Cultivated a “customer-obsessed” culture focused on meaningful client relationships
  • Executed visual merchandising strategies aligned with brand standards.
  • Created training materials for new product launches and facilitated ongoing staff development
  • Served as Acting Store Manager for six months prior to store closure.

Education

Associate of Arts -

Art Institute of Ft Lauderdale
Ft Lauderdale, Fl
01.2015

Skills

  • Bilingual English/Spanish
  • Hospitality Management
  • Team Liaison
  • Retail Leadership
  • Team Development
  • Operations Management
  • Guest Experience
  • Food & Beverage Service

Languages

English
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual

Timeline

Community Engagement Specialist

Girls Scouts of Tropical Florida-Miami, Fl
04.2025 - 06.2025

Restaurant Manager

Velvet Taco- Fort Lauderdale, Fl
11.2023 - 04.2025

Assistant Manager

California Pizza Kitchen-Ft Lauderdale, Fl
12.2020 - 04.2023

Server/Bartender

DoubleTree by Hilton- Ft Lauderdale, Fl
12.2019 - 03.2020

Assistant Store Manager-Acting Store Manager

Cole Haan- Ft Lauderdale, Fl / Aventura, Fl
09.2014 - 12.2019

Associate of Arts -

Art Institute of Ft Lauderdale