Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
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Benjamin Sames

Aylesbury,Bucks

Summary

I am an enthusiastic and dedicated hospitality professional with a genuine passion for bartending and customer service. Known for a charismatic presence, strong leadership, and the ability to perform under pressure. Experienced in managing teams, creating bespoke cocktail menus, and delivering high standards across both bar and front-of-house operations.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience
11
11
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Bartender

The Rockwood Pub
Aylesbury, Bucks
03.2025 - Current
  • Delivered excellent customer service in a busy, fast-paced bar environment.
  • Designed and updated cocktail/drinks menus, driving sales and customer engagement.
  • Maintained a clean, well-stocked bar and adhered to hygiene and licensing standards.
  • Handled transactions efficiently using POS systems during high-volume service.
  • Built rapport with customers, upselling drinks and encouraging repeat visits.

Bar Manager

The Manor
Aylesbury, Bucks
06.2020 - 03.2025
  • Managed a team of bartenders across three unique service areas: restaurant, cocktail lounge, and rooftop bar.
  • Designed and implemented the current drinks menu, with full responsibility for stock control and supplier orders.
  • Delivered high-quality, bespoke cocktails during peak service with consistency and attention to detail.
  • Hosted engaging cocktail masterclasses for guests and private events.
  • Demonstrated strong knowledge of spirits, ingredients, and classic and contemporary cocktail techniques.
  • Carried out key management duties: opening/closing, cashing up, conducting interviews, and writing staff rotas.
  • Built and maintained relationships with brand representatives to enhance product offering and promotions.
  • Stepped in to support Front of House operations as needed, including floor service and customer care.

Senior Waiter / Maitre D'

Cafe Wolseley
Bicester, Oxfordshire
09.2018 - 02.2020
  • Cross-trained across both reception and front-of-house roles to support smooth day-to-day operations.
  • Delivered consistently high levels of customer service in a busy restaurant setting.
  • Regularly ranked as top seller during service weeks through strong product knowledge and upselling skills.

Education

A-Levels - Fine Art - B, Maths - C, Chemistry - C

Aylesbury Grammar School
Aylesbury
09.2015 - 06.2017

GCSEs - 1A* , 5As, 2Bs, 1C incl English and Maths

Magdalen Grammar School
Oxford
09.2006 - 06.2015

Skills

  • Leadership & Team Management
  • Menu Creation & Stock Control
  • Cocktail Knowledge & Mixology
  • High-Pressure Service & Time Management
  • Customer Service & Guest Relations
  • FOH & Reception Ops
  • Cash Handling & Closing Procedures
  • Staff Training & Rotas
  • Upselling & Sales Performance
  • Event Hosting (eg Cocktail Masterclasses)
  • Communication with Suppliers & Brand Reps

Affiliations

  • Music and film are a big part of my life — I regularly go to gigs and theatre productions with friends and family. I enjoy drawing and reading most days when I’m not out and about.

Timeline

Bartender

The Rockwood Pub
03.2025 - Current

Bar Manager

The Manor
06.2020 - 03.2025

Senior Waiter / Maitre D'

Cafe Wolseley
09.2018 - 02.2020

A-Levels - Fine Art - B, Maths - C, Chemistry - C

Aylesbury Grammar School
09.2015 - 06.2017

GCSEs - 1A* , 5As, 2Bs, 1C incl English and Maths

Magdalen Grammar School
09.2006 - 06.2015
Benjamin Sames