Sean Michael Applewhaite
Bay Shore,New York
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with over 27 years of experience specializing in luxury properties in New York City, adept at navigating the complexities of a union environment. Proven track record of exceeding guest expectations, highlighted by contributions to prestigious projects such as the pre-opening teams at The Alex Hotel and The London NYC. Recognized by Leading Hotels of the World and Marriott for an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction and a passion for crafting unforgettable experiences. Strategic team builder with extensive training and development expertise, dedicated to enhancing customer experiences while positively impacting organizational culture and profitability.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Chartwell Hospitality
07.2020 - Current
- Overseeing soft goods OSE / FFE onsite installation
- FDNY-certified Fire Safety Life Director until 2026
- Task force member for market share and revenue management
- Awarded Marriott Gold recipient for Guest Service-ITR in 2023
- Led operational strategy to enhance guest satisfaction and streamline service delivery.
- Directed cross-functional teams to achieve organizational goals and improve efficiency across departments.
- Developed and implemented training programs that increased staff performance and engagement levels.
- Oversaw budget management, ensuring optimal resource allocation for maximum profitability.
- Fostered relationships with vendors to negotiate contracts resulting in improved service quality and cost savings.
- Responsible for vendor negotiation and contract management
General Manager
Chartwell Hospitality
01.2018 - 07.2020
- Recognized as Hotel of the Year for Chartwell Hospitality in 2018
- Achieved Marriott Gold recipient for Guest Service-ITR in 2018 and 2019
- Consistently excelled in employee satisfaction , retention, creating Culture
- Exceeded P&L exceptions, maintaining a positive flow through exceeding all operational metrics
- Successfully maintained food and beverage costs below industry standards
- 2018 / 2019 each year exceed 1.5M in Banquets sales
General Manager
Dimension Development
04.2015 - 01.2018
- Led the opening of a new build property in 2015
- Ranked among the top hotels in Dimension Development’s portfolio.
- Awarded Marriott Silver recipient for exceptional performance in 2016 & 2017.
- Demonstrated strong cost management and revenue optimization skills.
- Analyzed market trends to inform strategic planning and drive competitive positioning within the hospitality sector.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
Area General Manager
Gemini Hospitality
01.2013 - 04.2015
- Managed and improved operations at two key properties
- Implemented a successful service culture program leading to improved guest satisfaction.
- Achieved significant PNL improvements in a short period.
- Enhanced property performance within competitive market sets
- Led operational efficiency initiatives, optimizing resource allocation across multiple properties.
- Analyzed market trends and competitive landscape to inform pricing strategies and operational improvements.
- Coordinated successful events that promoted brand awareness while increasing community engagement within target demographic segments.
- Improved inventory management systems to optimize stock levels while minimizing waste or losses due to overstocking or shrinkage issues.
Director Of Operations
Flatiron Hotel
02.2011 - 01.2013
- Oversaw banquet space and raised Trip Advisor ranking to the top 100 in NYC.
- Negotiated key accounts leading to increased market share.
- Exceeded profit targets with strong flow-through percentages.
- Streamlined operational processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs across hotel departments.
- Oversaw inventory management systems, optimizing supply chain logistics and reducing waste by improving ordering procedures.
- Developed and executed training programs for staff, fostering skill enhancement and improving overall team performance.
- Analyzed operational data to identify trends, driving informed decision-making that enhanced service delivery standards.
Food And Beverage Director
Inn at Fox Hollow
04.2009 - 02.2011
- Successfully turned around F&B department to profitability
- Executed cross-promotional strategies to drive revenue growth.
- Managed operations and compliance for banquet services
- Generated substantial beverage sales and maintained cost efficiency.
- Oversaw staff training programs, fostering a culture of excellence and high performance within the team.
- Collaborated with kitchen leadership to design innovative dining concepts aligned with market trends.
- Coordinated seamless event execution for both small-scale gatherings and large-scale banquets or conferences.
- Delivered exceptional guest experiences through personalized service offerings tailored to individual preferences and dietary requirements.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Bachelor of Science in Tourism & Hospitality Manag
Norfolk State University
Norfolk, Virginia, VASkills
- Leadership and team building
- Problem resolution
- Operations management
- Team player
- Staff training/development
- Customer relations
- P&L management
- Client relations
- Labor cost controls
- Customer retention
- Project management
- Motivation
Timeline
General Manager
Chartwell Hospitality
07.2020 - Current
General Manager
Chartwell Hospitality
01.2018 - 07.2020
General Manager
Dimension Development
04.2015 - 01.2018
Area General Manager
Gemini Hospitality
01.2013 - 04.2015
Director Of Operations
Flatiron Hotel
02.2011 - 01.2013
Food And Beverage Director
Inn at Fox Hollow
04.2009 - 02.2011
Bachelor of Science - Bachelor of Science in Tourism & Hospitality Manag
Norfolk State University