Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Susan Rickwa

Summary

Professional with strong background in food service management. Skilled in optimizing operations, enhancing customer satisfaction, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Strong focus on team collaboration and adaptability to changing needs. Proven ability to lead teams, manage inventory, and ensure efficient service delivery. Reliable and results-driven with passion for achieving organizational goals.

Overview

2025
2025
years of professional experience

Work History

Bartender

The Camp
04.2023 - 10.2024
  • Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
  • Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
  • Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
  • Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
  • Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
  • Reduced wait times for drinks by efficiently managing the bar area and prioritizing orders.
  • Enhanced overall guest experience by promptly addressing concerns and resolving issues professionally.
  • Trained new bartenders on drink preparation, product promotion, garnish preparation, and sanitation protocol.
  • Organized bar inventory and storage procedures to keep stock within optimal levels and meet expected customer demands.
  • Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.
  • Educated customers on drink options, making personalized recommendations based on preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
  • Supported special events through attentive service, adapting quickly to varying needs of guests or clients.
  • Obtained cash bank and stocked service bar to prepare for operation.
  • Proactively addressed potential conflicts or disturbances among patrons, maintaining a safe atmosphere for all guests.
  • Developed loyal clientele by engaging in friendly conversations and providing exceptional service.
  • Improved team morale and efficiency, leading by example and offering support during peak hours.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations, routinely checking and documenting bar cleanliness and equipment functionality.
  • Enhanced customer experience with engaging conversations and personalized drink recommendations.
  • Streamlined bar operations by maintaining clean and organized work area, ensuring efficient service.
  • Increased repeat customer numbers, creating welcoming atmosphere and remembering regulars' favorite drinks.
  • Handled cash and card transactions accurately, reducing discrepancies and balancing till at end of each shift.
  • Adapted to fast-paced environment, effectively managing multiple drink orders simultaneously without compromising quality.
  • Verified drinking age requirements of customers by carefully reviewing photo identification.
  • Kept bar stocked with liquors, juices and garnishes for drinks.
  • Prepared garnishes by evenly slicing and pitting fruits.
  • Created attractive bar displays by strategically arranging bottles and glasses.

Event Dancer

Electric Events DC
11.2019 - 02.2023
  • Picked up choreography moves easily and immediately incorporated changes in choreography or new moves by staying flexible.
  • Developed strong relationships with fellow performers and production staff to foster a positive working environment.
  • Assisted in choreographing routines, contributing to the creative process and enhancing overall production value.
  • Improved overall team dynamic through open communication channels among members encouraging constructive feedback exchange.
  • Conducted research on upcoming dance trends, incorporating innovative elements into performances.
  • Adapted quickly to last-minute changes in choreography, demonstrating flexibility and positive attitude.
  • Maintained dance attire and props, ensuring they were in excellent condition for performances.
  • Demonstrated professionalism during high-pressure situations adhering strict deadlines while maintaining focus on technique and precision.

Instacart Shopper

Instacart
04.2020 - 03.2022
  • Maintained high satisfaction ratings by completing orders quickly and making good selections for customers.
  • Managed time effectively to complete multiple orders within tight deadlines, maximizing productivity and earnings.
  • Worked productively with customers to meet order requirements and service expectations.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing timely and efficient grocery shopping services.
  • Loaded and unloaded orders at customer's homes or locations.
  • Delivered items to customers on desired schedules by managing time efficiently and planning effective routes.
  • Utilized the Instacart app proficiently for order tracking, updates, and communication with customers.
  • Assisted customers with special requests by locating hard-to-find items or making appropriate substitutions.
  • Memorized store layouts and planograms to fulfill orders using shortest, most efficient route.
  • Demonstrated excellent problem-solving skills when addressing customer concerns or issues during the shopping process.
  • Reviewed customer orders closely to locate desired items and checked app regularly to identify changes.
  • Tracked substitutions and informed customers of changes.
  • Adhered to strict quality standards, carefully selecting fresh produce and checking expiration dates on perishable items.
  • Maintained high levels of accuracy in fulfilling orders, ensuring a positive customer experience.
  • Consistently met deadlines and quality goals for accuracy and timeliness.
  • Upheld food safety standards by properly handling perishable items and maintaining appropriate storage conditions during delivery.
  • Interacted with guests in friendly and knowledgeable way.
  • Safely and securely loaded items to prevent damage during transport.

Licensed Permanent Make-up Tattoo Artist /Lash Technician

Beauty by Susie
01.2018 - 03.2021
  • Utilized photographs and sketches from customers to develop ideas.
  • Educated clients on proper aftercare procedures, minimizing complications and promoting optimal healing results.
  • Increased studio''s clientele base through consistent high-quality work and outstanding customer service.
  • Performed clean, high-quality work at all times.
  • Maintained a clean and hygienic workspace, adhering to industry standards and ensuring client safety.
  • Accepted and processed customer payments.
  • Provided consultations for potential clients, guiding them through the design process and addressing any concerns or questions.
  • Grew client base by marketing services.
  • Maintained schedule and kept appointment times.
  • Ensured compliance with state regulations regarding licensing, permitting, sanitation guidelines throughout all aspects of the business operation.
  • Adapted personal artistic style based on feedback from clients or peers to continue growing as an artist within the industry.
  • Continuously improved artistic skills through ongoing education and participation in industry workshops or conferences.
  • Developed strong rapport with clients, leading to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Maintained sterile work environment, adhering to all health and safety standards to prevent infection and ensure client safety.
  • Researched and implemented new technologies and equipment.

Manager Fill In

Pawtiques Grooming and Academy
03.2019 - 03.2020
  • Established positive and effective communication among unit staff and organization leadership, reducing miscommunications, and missed deadlines.
  • Oversaw facility maintenance activities to ensure optimal performance of equipment and infrastructure elements.
  • Improved customer satisfaction ratings by ensuring prompt resolution of issues and concerns.
  • Enhanced team productivity by providing effective training programs and performance management systems.
  • Managed daily operations, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
  • Enhanced customer experience by refining service delivery processes, leading to repeat business and positive reviews.
  • Improved team morale with regular feedback sessions and recognition of outstanding performance.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining workflow processes and implementing new scheduling systems.
  • Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
  • Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
  • Analyzed and reported on key performance metrics to senior management.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to maximize customer satisfaction.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
  • Tracked employee attendance and punctuality, addressing repeat problems quickly to prevent long-term habits.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
  • Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
  • Cash handling, deposits.
  • Maintained social media presence creating marketing/advertising posts using Canva editor.

Owner CEO

StayFresh Meal Prep
09.2015 - 01.2017
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
  • Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
  • Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
  • Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
  • Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
  • Established foundational processes for business operations.
  • Organized and attended trade shows and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency and productivity by managing budgets, accounts, and costs.
  • Monitored market conditions to set accurate product pricing and take advantage of emerging trends.
  • Elevated brand awareness with targeted marketing campaigns, leveraging social media and digital platforms.
  • Fostered strong relationships with clients to boost retention rates, conducting regular feedback sessions.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
  • Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
  • Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
  • Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
  • Monitored daily cash discrepancies, inventory shrinkage and drive-off.
  • Achieved company growth by implementing strategic plans and streamlining operations.
  • Managed partnerships and strategic business relationships by negotiating contract terms and handling conflicts.
  • Developed key operational initiatives to drive and maintain substantial business growth.
  • Enhanced brand reputation with effective marketing campaigns and public relations efforts.
  • Built productive relationships with industry partners and competitors to support strategic business objectives.
  • Established new revenue streams by identifying market opportunities and launching innovative products or services.
  • Fostered strong relationships with industry partners to expand business opportunities.
  • Elevated brand visibility and market share with launch of highly successful digital marketing campaign.

Lifecafe Manager

Lifetime Fitness Cafe
04.2013 - 10.2016
  • Oversaw daily cafe operations to maintain smooth workflow in both front-of-house and back-of-house areas.
  • Delivered excellent customer service experiences by addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Trained cafe employees to consistently exceed customers' expectations and provide superior service.
  • Established a welcoming atmosphere, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and presentation throughout the cafe.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by implementing efficient service procedures and staff training programs.
  • Grew cafe sales by effectively marketing business and improving customer relations strategies.
  • Filled in for absent employees in any position in cafe, keeping operations efficient even when short-handed.
  • Kept staff motivated with regular feedback sessions, recognition of achievements, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Handled business administration functions such as payroll, cash register counting, and supply ordering.
  • Responded to customer inquiries and resolved complaints to establish trust and increase satisfaction.
  • Managed financial responsibilities effectively, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash handling procedures.
  • Enhanced team productivity through effective scheduling, task delegation, and performance evaluations.
  • Introduced new menu items to add variety and selections and meet customer preferences.
  • Ensured compliance with food safety regulations by implementing strict sanitation protocols and employee training initiatives.
  • Maximized profitability through cost control measures, including mindful purchasing decisions and labor management.
  • Kept cafe in full compliance with health code standards and achieved consistent scores above [Number].
  • Oversaw calendar to manage staff schedule and organize shifts for adequate coverage.
  • Managed display products effectively to achieve consistent sales with minimal waste.
  • Worked closely with kitchen staff to ensure menu items were prepared efficiently while maintaining quality standards.
  • Expanded menu offerings to cater to diverse dietary preferences, enhancing overall customer satisfaction rates.
  • Fostered a positive work environment through open communication channels and collaborative problem-solving approaches.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to promote cafe products and increase sales.
  • Streamlined cafe operations for increased efficiency and reduced waste, with thorough inventory management.
  • Secured daily cash by verifying totals and making nightly deposits.
  • Minimized risks of cross-contamination and infection by directing team members to regularly clean and sanitize surfaces.
  • Boosted sales growth by developing innovative marketing strategies and engaging promotional events.
  • Forecasted demand and scheduled employees effectively to handle coverage needs.
  • Collaborated on special event planning for the café such as themed nights or holiday promotions.
  • Enhanced cafe's ambiance with curated music playlists and local art displays, making it community hub.
  • Maintained rigorous health and safety standards, ensuring clean and safe dining experience for all patrons.
  • Led cafe through significant renovation project, improving both aesthetics and functionality, attracting new customers.
  • Responded to customer feedback with prompt and effective solutions, reinforcing commitment to customer satisfaction.
  • Managed inventory and negotiated with suppliers to ensure fresh ingredients were always available, reducing waste.
  • Implemented customer loyalty program, fostering community of regulars and boosting repeat business.
  • Oversaw daily financial operations, including cash handling and budget management, to ensure profitability.
  • Increased cafe revenue through strategic marketing campaigns that highlighted unique offerings and promotions.
  • Streamlined operations by introducing efficient scheduling software, optimizing staff hours and reducing labor costs.
  • Spearheaded introduction of seasonal menus, keeping cafe's offerings fresh and enticing to customers.
  • Fostered culture of excellence in customer service, leading to numerous positive reviews and recommendations.
  • Enhanced customer experience by implementing new cafe layout that encouraged more foot traffic and comfortable seating arrangements.
  • Cultivated positive work environment, leading to high staff morale and low turnover rates.
  • Initiated community events and workshops at cafe, creating vibrant and engaging space for locals.
  • Managed staff schedules and maintained adequate coverage for all shifts.
  • Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
  • Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
  • Trained staff on proper cooking procedures as well as safety regulations and productivity strategies.
  • Motivated staff to perform at peak efficiency and quality.
  • Reduced health risks and safety hazards by preparing beverage products consistently while creating cleaning schedules, restocking items and sanitizing equipment to adhere to health department standards.
  • Oversaw food preparation and monitored safety protocols.
  • Kept facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations, alleviating potentially heavy fines.
  • Purchased food and cultivated strong vendor relationships.
  • Implemented effective inventory control systems to reduce food spoilage and waste.
  • Developed unique events and special promotions to drive sales.
  • Enhanced financial controls to minimize theft and loss risks, continuously maintaining accurate accounts and cash drawers.
  • Reduced inaccuracies by carefully counting cash and keeping meticulous records of transactions.
  • Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
  • Maximized quality assurance by completing frequent line checks.

Assistant Store Manager

Sunglass Hut - Luxottica
04.2011 - 03.2013
  • Managed cash registers efficiently, ensuring accurate transactions, balancing drawers daily, and minimizing discrepancies.
  • Managed opening and closing procedures and recommended changes to enhance efficiency of daily activities.
  • Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.
  • Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
  • Assisted the Store Manager in analyzing sales data to identify trends and make informed decisions for improving overall store performance.
  • Walked through store areas to identify and proactively resolve issues negatively impacting operations.
  • Mentored new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure their success within the organization.
  • Supervised and evaluated staff to help improve skills, achieve daily objectives, and attain advancement.
  • Fostered a positive work culture by promoting teamwork and recognizing individual achievements among staff members regularly.
  • Processed payments for credit and debit cards and returned proper change for cash transactions.
  • Created and maintained safe and secure work environments for employees.
  • Developed a loyal customer base through personalized interactions, increasing repeat business in-store visits.
  • Responded to customer concerns, working with manager to significantly raise customer satisfaction ratings.
  • Streamlined inventory management with regular audits, accurate ordering, and efficient stock organization.
  • Maintained positive customer relationships by responding quickly to customer service inquiries.
  • Reconciled daily sales transactions to balance and log day-to-day revenue.
  • Interviewed, hired, and trained staff associates and equipped to comply with company policies and procedures.
  • Resolved escalated customer issues effectively leading to improved customer satisfaction rates.
  • Verified inventory counts remained within monthly tolerance levels and compiled financial data in compliance with budget.
  • Implemented loss prevention tactics to deter thefts while maintaining a welcoming environment for all customers.
  • Provided support to store manager in budgeting processes, helping maintain financial stability for the business.
  • Collaborated with store manager to develop marketing initiatives that drove traffic and increased brand awareness.
  • Delivered consistent sales growth by identifying opportunities for promotions and cross-selling products to customers.
  • Improved store operations by establishing clear communication channels between team members and implementing efficient scheduling practices.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations of team members while providing constructive feedback resulting in enhanced productivity levels.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Monitored daily cash discrepancies, inventory shrinkage and drive-off.
  • Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
  • Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.

Server

Silver Diner
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
  • Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
  • Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.

Server, Bartender, Head Server

Outback Steakhouse
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
  • Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
  • Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
  • Cash handling of all evening servers at close of business.
  • Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly attending to their needs and providing personalized service.
  • Provided attentive service during high-volume periods without sacrificing attention to detail or guest rapport.
  • Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally to maintain positive reputation.
  • Maintained clean and organized dining areas to uphold restaurant hygiene standards.
  • Handled cash transactions accurately, contributing to balanced daily financial reports.
  • Supported colleagues during peak hours, fostering a collaborative work environment that enhanced overall productivity levels.
  • Followed health and safety protocols crucial for maintaining safe and sanitary environments for customers and staff.
  • Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
  • Increased sales with upselling techniques and thorough knowledge of menu items, specials, and promotions.
  • Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, resulting in satisfied customers.
  • Used slow periods to restock supplies, ice, trays, and delivery bags.
  • Adhered to proper food handling procedures and safety guidelines for the well-being of guests and team members alike.
  • Maximized table turnover rate by managing reservations and seating arrangements.
  • Learned and followed local alcohol laws to keep restaurant compliant with regulations.
  • Maintained high standards of personal appearance and hygiene, reflecting positively on establishment.
  • Boosted repeat customer rates, remembered regular guests' preferences and greeted them by name.
  • Kept up with fast-paced environments, ensuring timely delivery of orders during peak hours.
  • Resolved customer complaints with calm, solution-focused approach, ensuring guest satisfaction.
  • Built rapport with guests to enhance their dining experience and encourage return visits.
  • Improved dining experience by providing prompt, attentive service to guests.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure order accuracy and timely preparation of dishes.
  • Ensured accurate cash handling and processed transactions swiftly, contributing to restaurant's financial accuracy.
  • Utilized knowledge of menu to make recommendations, enhancing customer dining experience.
  • Increased sales by suggesting additional items like desserts and drinks based on customers' orders.
  • Carried out complete opening, closing and shift change duties to keep restaurant working efficiently and teams ready to meet customer needs.
  • Answered customers' questions, recommended items, and recorded order information.
  • Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
  • Maintained thorough menu knowledge to sufficiently answer questions regarding menu item sourcing, ingredients and cooking methods.
  • Maintained order efficiency and accuracy through clear communication with kitchen staff, earning numerous recommendations from satisfied customers.
  • Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
  • Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
  • Checked guests' identification before serving alcoholic beverages.
  • Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
  • Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.
  • Upheld strict regulations for safe alcohol service and food safety.
  • Modeled strategies to wait staff for delivering exceptional and friendly service to every guest, every time.
  • Closed out cash drawer at end of each shift, reconciling totals and resolving discrepancies to maintain financial accuracy.
  • Contributed to the restaurant''s reputation for exceptional service by consistently receiving positive reviews from satisfied guests.
  • Boosted team morale through recognition of outstanding performance, fostering a supportive work environment.
  • Used communication and problem-solving skills to resolve customer complaints and promote long-term loyalty.

Education

High School Diploma -

Oakton Highschool
Vienna

No Degree - Permanent Make-up Tattoo Artist

Derma Elite Academy
Richmond, VA
01-2017

Skills

  • Inventory management
  • Employee training
  • Team collaboration
  • Sales strategies
  • Problem resolution
  • Communication skills
  • Strong work ethic
  • Exceptional customer service
  • Safe food handling
  • Shift management
  • Upselling techniques
  • Point of sale (POS) system operations

Timeline

Bartender

The Camp
04.2023 - 10.2024

Instacart Shopper

Instacart
04.2020 - 03.2022

Event Dancer

Electric Events DC
11.2019 - 02.2023

Manager Fill In

Pawtiques Grooming and Academy
03.2019 - 03.2020

Licensed Permanent Make-up Tattoo Artist /Lash Technician

Beauty by Susie
01.2018 - 03.2021

Owner CEO

StayFresh Meal Prep
09.2015 - 01.2017

Lifecafe Manager

Lifetime Fitness Cafe
04.2013 - 10.2016

Assistant Store Manager

Sunglass Hut - Luxottica
04.2011 - 03.2013

Server

Silver Diner

Server, Bartender, Head Server

Outback Steakhouse

High School Diploma -

Oakton Highschool

No Degree - Permanent Make-up Tattoo Artist

Derma Elite Academy

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Susan Rickwa