Talene Kazandjian
Ocean Grove,New Jersey
Summary
Experienced Food and Beverage Manager with a hands-on approach in overseeing restaurant, bar, and catering operations in fast-paced hospitality environments. Proven track record in managing budgets, optimizing costs, and enhancing service quality to drive guest satisfaction and revenue growth. Skilled in training staff to exceed guest expectations, implementing operational efficiencies, and maintaining top-tier service standards through effective inventory management. Passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences through strategic menu planning, successful supplier negotiations, and strict adherence to health and safety regulations.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Food and Beverage Manager
The Asbury Ocean Club
07.2022 - Current
- Managed shifts in the Food & Beverage management team, overseeing bar, server, and in-room dining departments for a boutique hotel and private residences
- Areas of management include 2 dining areas, in-room dining, and the pool deck
- Hotel was awarded 2 Forbes recommended ratings and earned a Michelin Key during tenure
- Experience with high-profile individuals ensuring privacy and confidentiality during their stays
- Took over the role of Senior Food and Beverage manager in September 2024
- Focus on upgrading service to fine dining
- Payroll, Budget, Forecasting, Training, Scheduling, Ordering, Distributor Relations
Service Manager, Assistant Manager, Office Admin
Amelia's on Boston
04.2017 - 11.2019
- Assisted with restaurant opening in April 2017; role included purchasing, organization of the office and restaurant supplies
- Promoted to Service Manager Position
- Created a service training manual and program for all new incoming front of house staff
- Lead trainer for all incoming service staff
- Developed a testing program for server staff
Assistant Manager
The Summit Private City Club
04.2016 - 03.2017
- Coordinated staff for banquets; worked with the director of catering to ensure guest satisfaction
- These events included small business meetings to large groups up to 300 people
- Hired staff for Penthouse lounge and fine dining room
- Supervised the fine dining and Penthouse staffs including scheduling
- Trained staff in fine dining service techniques, as well as wine service
- Selected by United States Secret Service to assist on a club event for then Vice President Joe Biden (November 2015)
General Manager
Stonehorse Cafe
04.2016 - 03.2017
- Trained staff in fine dining techniques of proper service etiquette
- Lead wine training courses for staff
- Lead all areas of restaurant, including running floor staff, events, scheduling, booking wine dinners with wine makers, and financials
Shift Leader, Server and Certified Corporate Trainer
Mahogany Prime Steakhouse
09.2011 - 05.2015
- Maintained high level of customer service to exceed the expectations of guests
- Worked with large private parties and corporate dinners
- Corporate Trainer
- Awarded 'Employee of the Year' for 2014
- Top employee in sales and earnings
Administrative Assistant, Server and Hostess
The Capital Grille
03.2001 - 08.2004
- Office manager and assistant to the general managing partner
- Duties included communicating with Capital Grille corporate office regarding accounts payable and invoicing
- Server, host, trainer
Education
No Degree - International Marketing
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OKSkills
- Budget management
- High-End Dining Service
- Employee Development
- Supplier Engagement and Ordering
- Service Excellence
- Coordinated Event Execution
- Seasonal Menu Creation
- Conflict resolution
- Leadership in Teams
- Detail-Oriented Approach
- Payroll Administration Skills
- Scheduling
- Inventory Management
Certification
- ServSafe Food Handler's Certification
- CPR/AED Certification
Timeline
Food and Beverage Manager
The Asbury Ocean Club
07.2022 - Current
Service Manager, Assistant Manager, Office Admin
Amelia's on Boston
04.2017 - 11.2019
Assistant Manager
The Summit Private City Club
04.2016 - 03.2017
General Manager
Stonehorse Cafe
04.2016 - 03.2017
Shift Leader, Server and Certified Corporate Trainer
Mahogany Prime Steakhouse
09.2011 - 05.2015
Administrative Assistant, Server and Hostess
The Capital Grille
03.2001 - 08.2004
No Degree - International Marketing
Oklahoma State University
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