Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Proficiencies
References
Leadership Experience
Communication Skills
References
Timeline
Generic

Steve Gerken

Wetumpka,AL

Summary

Skilled in delivering high-quality products that exceed customer service expectations and drive profitability. Proven ability to coordinate and implement strategic plans in fast-paced environments while fostering team motivation and morale. Strong leadership capabilities with a focus on achieving measurable results.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Hospitality (Operations)

Wind Creek Casino & Resorts
Wetumpka, AL
01.2025 - Current
  • Directed daily operations for hospitality services at 283-room Four Diamond Resort.
  • Converted buffet restaurant to a la carte, launching 120-seat breakfast venue.
  • Increased net profits by $129,000 year-over-year while reducing COGS by 9.8%.
  • Implemented new InfoGenesis POS system to enhance transaction efficiency.
  • Relocated valet service to improve guest accessibility and satisfaction.
  • Achieved 93% Guest Survey Scores, ranking among highest in the industry.
  • Managed hotel front desk, housekeeping, valet, bell services, food and beverage, and retail operations.
  • Oversaw strategic initiatives to elevate guest experience and operational performance.

Commercial /Residential Realtor

Realty One Group - World Properties
Chandler, Arizona
03.2023 - Current

Conducted market analysis to assess property values and inform pricing strategies.

  • Negotiated contracts with buyers and sellers to facilitate successful transactions.
  • Developed tailored marketing strategies for listings across multiple platforms.
  • Managed client interactions and transactions using CRM software to enhance efficiency.
  • Built strong relationships with clients to comprehend real estate needs effectively.
  • Collaborated with mortgage brokers and inspectors to ensure smooth transaction processes.

Senior Director of Hospitality (Operations)

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
Scottsdale, AZ
01.2011 - 04.2023
  • Achieved AAA four-diamond rating for 12 consecutive years by exceeding guest service standards.
  • Directed strategic planning to enhance operational excellence and improve guest experience.
  • Participated in Master Plan committee, completing 17 new construction and remodeling projects.
  • Received multiple awards for best Spa, Night Club, Seafood, and Fine Dining Restaurants.
  • Secured Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for outstanding wine selection.

Acting Vice President of Hospitality (Operations)

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
Scottsdale, AZ
06.2010 - 01.2011
  • Constructed and launched 496-room resort with three pools and twelve spa treatment rooms.
  • Developed 200,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and a 650-seat showroom.
  • Established seven food outlets and twelve bars to enhance guest experience.
  • Led strategic planning initiatives to improve operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with executive team to formulate and execute marketing strategies.
  • Designed 48-table poker room to attract diverse clientele and increase revenue.
  • Implemented innovative operational processes to streamline service delivery across outlets.
  • Monitored guest feedback to drive continuous improvement in resort offerings.

Director of Hospitality

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
Scottsdale, AZ
12.2008 - 06.2010
  • Oversaw Food and Beverage, Retail, and Transportation Departments at Casino Arizona.
  • Managed hiring and orientation processes for 1,000 employees.
  • Designed and supervised construction of hotel, showroom, convention space, and food and beverage facilities.
  • Led staff training initiatives to improve guest service skills.

Food and Beverage Director

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
Scottsdale, AZ
06.2005 - 12.2008
  • Oversaw operations and financial performance of six food outlets, six bars, and gift shop at Casino Arizona.
  • Installed InfoGenesis POS system to enhance transaction processing efficiency.
  • Designed innovative menus that elevated guest dining experiences.
  • Developed training programs focused on service excellence standards for all staff.

Executive Chef

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
Scottsdale, AZ
08.2000 - 06.2005
  • Established Casino Arizona, featuring six outlets and an award-winning buffet.
  • Achieved recognition as best casino and poker room, winning Scottsdale Culinary Festival cooking competition.
  • Designed and expanded Willow's 24-hour casual restaurant, increasing seating capacity by 70.
  • Created innovative seasonal menus that highlighted local flavors and culinary trends.
  • Supervised culinary staff to enhance performance and foster teamwork.
  • Implemented cost control measures to optimize kitchen inventory and minimize waste.
  • Collaborated with suppliers to source high-quality, fresh ingredients for menu items.

Education

Associate degree - Culinary Arts

The Culinary Institute of America
Hyde Park, NY

Licensed Real Estate Agent -

Arizona School of Real Estate
Scottsdale, AZ

Skills

  • Computer knowledge and Microsoft Office
  • UKG and Delphi software
  • Opera, MEWS, and Vision One PMS
  • Agilysis-Stratton Warren MMS and InfoGenesis
  • Market analysis
  • Client relationship management
  • Project management
  • Financial analysis
  • Problem solving
  • Effective communication
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • BOSS and Cinc Pro software
  • Organizational skills

Proficiencies

Microsoft Office, UKG, Delphi, Opera, Vision One PMS, Stratton Warren MMS, InfoGenesis, BOSS, MEWS PMS, Cinc Pro, Strong leadership and team-building, Outstanding organizational and project management, Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

References

Furnished upon request

Leadership Experience

  • Managed project teams in designing, opening, and operating four-diamond resorts, hotels, and casinos
  • Raised occupancy by over 100%
  • Reduced payroll by over 100 FTE’s

Communication Skills

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven ability to communicate complex ideas and concepts to diverse audiences
  • Setting and enforcing standard operating procedures (SOP’s)
  • Skilled in conflict resolution and negotiation
  • Building and maintaining guest and employee relationships

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Director of Hospitality (Operations)

Wind Creek Casino & Resorts
01.2025 - Current

Commercial /Residential Realtor

Realty One Group - World Properties
03.2023 - Current

Senior Director of Hospitality (Operations)

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
01.2011 - 04.2023

Acting Vice President of Hospitality (Operations)

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
06.2010 - 01.2011

Director of Hospitality

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
12.2008 - 06.2010

Food and Beverage Director

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
06.2005 - 12.2008

Executive Chef

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona
08.2000 - 06.2005

Associate degree - Culinary Arts

The Culinary Institute of America

Licensed Real Estate Agent -

Arizona School of Real Estate