Wayne Carlson
Hatfield,Massachusetts
Summary
Dynamic Catering Manager with a proven track record at Oakview Group Hospitality, excelling in event planning and staff leadership. Achieved increased client retention through exceptional customer service and innovative menu development. Skilled in inventory management and food safety, fostering a collaborative team environment that enhances service quality.
Experienced with managing all facets of catering operations, from menu development to event execution. Utilizes strategic planning and vendor negotiations to enhance service quality and cost-efficiency. Strong understanding of team coordination and customer satisfaction to deliver memorable culinary experiences.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Catering Manager
Oakview Group Hospitality
03.2022 - Current
- Successfully managed a diverse range of events including weddings, corporate functions, and special occasions, consistently exceeding client expectations.
- Hired and trained both permanent and temporary staff members.
- Handled catering scheduling, ordered food and planned events.
- Collaborated with clients to create customized menus tailored to their specific preferences and needs.
- Conducted post-event evaluations with clients, identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes accordingly.
- Negotiated competitive pricing with suppliers, resulting in reduced operational costs for the company.
- Developed and conducted staff training programs, enhancing team skills and service levels.
- Adapted to changing market trends, keeping service offerings fresh and competitive.
- Coordinated with event planners for floor and table layouts, guest numbers, and overall catering needs.
- Met with clients to outline desired goals and prepared quotes for overall catering costs.
- Developed comprehensive event proposals that clearly outlined deliverables, timelines, budget requirements based on client input for events 20 guests-1000 guests.
- Achieved increased client retention rates by providing exceptional customer service throughout the event planning process.
- Designed catering packages to increase sales and customer experience.
Chef
Watermark Retirement
11.2021 - 03.2022
- Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
- Checked freezer and refrigerator prior to each shift to verify correct temperatures.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Reduced food waste with strategic menu planning and inventory control techniques.
- Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
- Cultivated a positive work culture among kitchen staff through open communication lines and mutual respect within the team.
- Responded to dietary concerns and food allergies, creating dishes to meet customer needs and palates.
- Upheld stringent food safety regulations, ensuring compliance with all relevant health department guidelines.
General Manager
Moes Southwestern Grill
09.2020 - 11.2021
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules.
- Managed a diverse team of employees, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Performed weekly inventory.
- Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
- Directed comprehensive sales efforts to exceed revenue targets consistently while maintaining customer satisfaction levels.
- Led team to exceed sales targets, implementing motivational incentives and comprehensive training programs.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, minimizing waste and ensuring optimal stock levels for uninterrupted operations.
Night Hotel Manager
Hotel Northampton
11.2018 - 03.2020
- Hired and trained new employees, demonstrating best methods for serving clients and guests.
- Regularly analyzed guest feedback data to identify and address areas where improvements could be made, resulting in consistently high customer satisfaction ratings.
- Handled guest complaints and offered complimentary services to maintain high guest satisfaction rates.
- Conducted regular staff performance evaluations, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback.
- Managed hotel operations for seamless functioning, ensuring high levels of efficiency and guest satisfaction.
- Greeted and assisted guests by gathering information pertaining to reservations or requests.
- Provided exceptional service and assistance to guests upon check-in.
- Oversaw all aspects of event planning, from contract negotiation to day-of coordination, resulting in successful events and satisfied clients.
- Collaborated with sales teams on promotional strategies designed to drive increased interest in lodging at our establishment.
- Led team of 50+ staff, fostering culture of excellence and teamwork that significantly reduced staff turnover rates.
Education
Associate of Arts - Hospitality Management
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke09-2004
High School Diploma -
Chicopee High School
Chicopee06-1995
Skills
- Event planning proficiency
- Staff leadership
- Food safety
- File management
- Sanitation standards
- Staff scheduling
- Menu development
- ServSafe manager
- Inventory management
- Table setting
- Catering management
- Menu tastings
- Catering consultation
- Catering sales orders
- Menu pricing
- Event coordination
- Training and onboarding
- Customer service
- Safe food handling
- Menu pricing and writing
Timeline
Catering Manager
Oakview Group Hospitality
03.2022 - Current
Chef
Watermark Retirement
11.2021 - 03.2022
General Manager
Moes Southwestern Grill
09.2020 - 11.2021
Night Hotel Manager
Hotel Northampton
11.2018 - 03.2020
Associate of Arts - Hospitality Management
Holyoke Community College
High School Diploma -
Chicopee High School
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