Seth P VanLaanen
Denver,CO
Summary
Dedicated and committed Operations Manager, bartender, and talented leader with several years of experience applying exceptional problem-solving abilities toward enhancing business plans and day-to-day activities. Results-driven and resilient in developing teams while improving processes and increasing productivity. Bringing solid understanding of industry trends, excellent communication skills, talent for spotting areas in need of improvement and implementing changes with strategic approach.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager of Operations
The Family Jones Distillery And Spirit House
02.2022 - 03.2023
- Led a hospitality driven tasting room and distillery operation with a unique and hands-on approach that fostered guest education and attention to detail on the relationships and ingredients that made our products.
- Focus on transparency of the family: who, what, where, and why all incorporated into the whole guest experience.
- Responsible for any and all facets of day to day business operations from a FOH, BOH, and management standpoint including but not limited too: HR, Payroll, Product Ordering, Invoicing, Vendor/Partner Relations, Events, and overall Financial Management.
Director of Operations
Run For The Roses
10.2017 - 03.2020
- Co-responsible for concept creation, conceptualization, design, and delivery as well as helped in construction and development of all standard operating procedures.
- Responsible for any and all facets of day to day business operations from a FOH, BOH, and management standpoint including but not limited too: HR, Payroll, Product Ordering, Invoicing, Vendor/Partner Relations, Events, and overall Financial Management.
- Led an educated, knowledgeable, and well-versed hospitality team to procure a unique, exciting, and interactive environment for our guests. In doing so we were proudly nominated for many accolades such as: Top 10 Best New Bars in America, Best New Bars in Denver, and had the pleasure of representing Denver at the James Beard House in New York City.
Lead Bartender
El Five
10.2017 - 07.2018
- Curated guest experiences with fine-tuned hospitality and awareness while fostering a team environment that developed a loyal and engaged customer base.
- Streamlined daily bar operations by helping implement efficient inventory management systems and prep support.
- Trained new bartenders on company policies, drink recipes, and customer service best practices to maintain consistent performance across the team.
General Manager of Operations
Black Eye Coffee / White Lies
09.2015 - 09.2017
- Responsible for any and all facets of day to day business operations from a FOH, BOH, and management standpoint including but not limited too: HR, Payroll, Product Ordering, Invoicing, Vendor/Partner Relations, Events, and overall Financial Management.
- Hiring, team building, scheduling, employee performance, improvement, and support for two different concepts: the AM operating coffee shop/breakfast and brunch and the PM operating cocktail bar/restaurant.
- Led and collaborated with team-based and ever evolving menu creation/development to continue to further staff engagement and guest experience.
Server
Ace Eat Serve
03.2014 - 11.2015
- Created a fun, welcoming, and attentive environment for guest experience and satisfaction by promptly attending to their needs and providing personalized hospitality.
- Consistent sales leader with handling of extensive menu knowledge, upselling, and rapport growth from both new and returning guests.
- Assisted in training all new hires, providing guidance on restaurant operating procedures and effective practice and standards.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Financial Analysis/Accounting
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, COSkills
- Hospitality Curator
- Staff Development Leadership
- Operations Management
- Logistics Management
- Business Analysis
Certification
TIPS certified (Colorado)
BarSmarts Advanced
Academia Patron - Agave Masters
Timeline
General Manager of Operations
The Family Jones Distillery And Spirit House
02.2022 - 03.2023
Director of Operations
Run For The Roses
10.2017 - 03.2020
Lead Bartender
El Five
10.2017 - 07.2018
General Manager of Operations
Black Eye Coffee / White Lies
09.2015 - 09.2017
Server
Ace Eat Serve
03.2014 - 11.2015
Bachelor of Science - Financial Analysis/Accounting
University of Colorado Denver
TIPS certified (Colorado)
BarSmarts Advanced
Academia Patron - Agave Masters
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