Accomplished professional with extensive expertise in staff management, customer service, and financial analysis. Demonstrates proficiency in budgeting, stock control, and supplier management, complemented by strong skills in marketing and promotion. Adept at mixology and bartending with a keen focus on health and safety compliance. Proven track record in problem solving, leadership, and team building. Skilled public speaker with experience in event planning and implementing revenue growth strategies. Committed to cost management and maintaining inventory accuracy while coordinating schedules effectively. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace, aiming to leverage these skills towards achieving strategic business objectives.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1999
1999
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Career Break
04.2024 - 03.2025
Took a well-earned career break after over 20 years in continuous senior operational roles to recharge, focus on personal development, and explore opportunities for growth outside of traditional employment.
Completed short courses in personal development, leadership development and wellness in hospitality.
Consulted informally for hospitality peers and independent venues, offering insights on cost control branding, and staff training.
Maintained active engagement with industry networks, events, and hospitality innovation forums.
Ready to re-enter the industry with fresh perspective, renewed energy, and expanded vision for high-quality customer engagement and operational excellence.
Operations Director
Good Harbour Trading Ltd.
London
02.2016 - 03.2024
Company Overview: Oversaw The Distillery, a four-floor, 5000 square foot venue, the first of its kind in the UK. Not only a working distillery in the centre of London, but also home or the internationally-renowned Portobello Road Gin. Also incorporates a 100 + cover restaurant and bar, bottle shop, events space and 3 hotel rooms.
Oversaw and orchestrated the daily operations of a high-volume bar, restaurant, hotel and distillery with a team of 35+ staff members with £4,000,000 annual turnover.
Increased monthly revenue by 20% through strategic pricing adjustments and promotional events.
Implemented cost-saving measures, reducing operational expenses by 15% without compromising quality.
Established strong supplier and maintenance contractor relationships, negotiating contracts and pricing to improve supply efficiency and reduce costs.
Ensured strict adherence to health and safety policy and due diligence regulations, resulting in zero major incidents.
Collaborated directly alongside PR and marketing team. Developed and executed innovative marketing campaigns, including themed and sponsored dinners / nights and social media initiatives, increasing foot traffic by 25%.
Spearheaded renovations and interior design that improved the bar's ambiance, decor and customer experience, resulting in a 15% boost in repeat business.
Conducted regular financial analysis, maintaining budgets, and achieving consistent profitability.
Curated music policy and playlists for the varied areas of the venue, booked DJs.
Developed, hosted and oversaw the highly acclaimed Ginstitute Experience. Resulting in over 130,000 attendees in 12 years. Awarded a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor.
Managed guest relations effectively, addressing feedback and concerns to maintain a positive reputation.
Developed, hosted and ran additional guest experiences including a James Bond themed dining experience to continued critical acclaim.
Took lead on bespoke gin creation projects; clients included The Savoy, The Ledbury, The Royal Opera House and Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits). Formed and maintained solid working relationships with clients over a number of years and generated large income streams from all projects.
Oversaw The Distillery, a four-floor, 5000 square foot venue, the first of its kind in the UK. Not only a working distillery in the centre of London, but also home or the internationally-renowned Portobello Road Gin. Also incorporates a 100 + cover restaurant and bar, bottle shop, events space and 3 hotel rooms.
Operations Director
Leelex Ltd.
Leeds
05.2009 - 02.2016
Company Overview: Lead and oversaw all operational aspects for 3 independent, late night bars with an exceptional reputation within the city and North of England.
Management of 3 General Managers and an indirect team of 50 across 3 sites.
Increased annual turnover from c.£2.5m - £3.6m and increased profitability.
Recruit, train, and supervise a team of bartenders, servers, and support staff, ensuring high-quality service.
Create and maintain a positive work environment that fosters teamwork and staff retention.
Implement cost-control measures to optimise expenses while maintaining service quality.
Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts for supplies and services.
Monitor compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations.
Regularly analyse financial reports, budgets, and performance metrics to make data-driven decisions.
Plan and execute marketing and promotional campaigns to attract and retain customers.
Handle customer inquiries, feedback, and concerns with professionalism and efficiency.
Lead and oversaw all operational aspects for 3 independent, late night bars with an exceptional reputation within the city and North of England.