Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Timeline
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MICAELA-LEIGH LUKE

MICAELA-LEIGH LUKE

RESTAURANT MANAGER
Cape Town

Summary

I am a dynamic leader with a proven track record where I have had the opportunity to grow my skills and knowledge base by working with reputable chefs from around the globe. I have gained ample experience from Homespun by Matt at the Andros, the Social group by Jason Atherton and Groot Constantia. I've physically contributed to enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Skilled in inventory control, all aspects of management and fostering team collaboration, I've successfully implemented service standards that boosted brand visibility and profitability. My adept problem-solving and interpersonal skills have consistently elevated guest experiences, showcasing a commitment to excellence and continuous room for improvement.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages

Work History

Restaurant Manager

Homespun by Matt at the Andros
12.2021 - Current
  • Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
  • Met, greeted, and encouraged feedback from customers and used feedback to implement positive changes within restaurant.
  • Monitored inventory of supplies and purchased orders to maintain adequate stock levels.
  • Quickly identified problem situations and skillfully resolved incidents to satisfaction of involved parties.
  • Carefully interviewed, selected, trained, and supervised staff.
  • Improved overall customer satisfaction by implementing new service standards and staff training programs.
  • Enhanced guest experience by regularly reviewing feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
  • Developed, implemented, and managed business plans to promote profitable food and beverage sales.
  • Promoted positive atmosphere and went above and beyond to guarantee each customer received exceptional food and service.
  • Promoted a positive work environment with proactive conflict resolution strategies and team-building activities.
  • Optimized labor costs by closely monitoring schedules, adjusting staffing levels according to business needs, and employing cross-training strategies.
  • Developed comprehensive marketing plans for special events, promotions, and community outreach efforts to boost brand visibility.
  • Coordinated catering services for private events, delivering memorable experiences while maximizing profits.
  • Established strong relationships with local suppliers to secure competitive pricing on quality ingredients without sacrificing taste or presentation.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures through streamlined processes, efficient scheduling, and strategic vendor negotiations.
  • Oversaw inventory management processes to minimize waste and maintain optimal stock levels for seamless operation.
  • Facilitated regular training sessions for all front of house team members to ensure a working environment directed at the growth and knowledge of the service team.
  • Mentored and developed staff members for career advancement opportunities, leading to a more skilled and motivated workforce.
  • Effectively managed supplier payments and timekeeping, and paperwork for new hires and terminations.
  • Reconciled cash and credit card transactions to maintain accurate records. Managing the Recon together with the Hotel to ensure all room slips and breakfast slips are recorded, captured and invoiced correctly.
  • Conducted performance evaluations for staff members, identifying areas of improvement while recognizing outstanding achievements as well.
  • Assisted in development and implementation of new menus to offer variety and options to customers.
  • Fostered an inclusive atmosphere with open communication channels for all employees to voice concerns or suggestions freely.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline order preparation processes, reducing wait times for customers.
  • Enhanced dining experience with introduction of seasonal menu, keeping offerings fresh and exciting.
  • Conducted market research to identify trends and opportunities for menu development, keeping restaurant competitive.
  • Upgraded restaurant's interior, creating more inviting ambiance that attracted wider clientele.
  • Enhanced team performance by leading weekly training sessions focused on customer service excellence and menu knowledge.
  • Monitored daily operations to ensure seamless service delivery, addressing any issues promptly.
  • Maintained meticulous financial records, enabling accurate budgeting and financial planning.
  • Implemented cost-saving strategies, reducing waste through meticulous inventory management.
  • Cultivated strong team culture, organizing team-building activities that improved morale and teamwork.
  • Managed staff schedules and maintained adequate coverage for all shifts.
  • Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
  • Oversaw food preparation and monitored safety protocols.
  • Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
  • Monitored and adjusted pricing, discounts and promotions to maximize profitability.
  • Developed unique events and special promotions to drive sales.
  • Inspected equipment and machinery for proper working condition and directed staff to clean and repair as needed.
  • Kept facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations, alleviating potentially heavy fines.
  • Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining strict confidentiality at all times as required by company policy or legal regulations.
  • Maintained detailed records of all stock movements, providing valuable data for decision-making purposes.
  • Coordinated with quality assurance team to ensure that incoming products met established quality standards, preventing potential stock issues related to defective items.
  • Managed the implementation of a new inventory management system, resulting in more accurate tracking and forecasting capabilities.
  • Maintained awareness of industry best practices in stock control and inventory management, incorporating relevant ideas into company procedures for continuous improvement efforts.
  • Determined and performed appropriate adjustments of authorized stock levels.
  • Negotiated with vendors to secure advantageous pricing arrangements, reducing overall inventory carrying costs.
  • Implemented Inventory count sheets for month end counts and weekly variances, increasing the frequency of counts without disrupting daily operations or affecting productivity levels.
  • Performed inventory control, such as counting, and stocking food and beverages.
  • Answered customer questions and provided detailed product information.
  • Checked product levels and recommended new purchases.
  • Recorded daily activities for inventory control.
  • Received new stock and input values into computer system.
  • Maintained tidy and clean work areas to promote optimal productivity and safety standards.
  • Reported and analyzed inventory data to help management strategically improve pricing and marketing strategies.
  • Completed inventory accounts to keep records current and promote accurate ordering.
  • Volunteered to assist with projects, demonstrating willingness to learn new tasks and increase skill levels.
  • Supported timely month-end close activities by preparing reports on outstanding invoices, payments,monitoring and inputting expenses, managing orders and par levels, finalizing cost of sales together with Ops manager.
  • Optimized workflow efficiency by organizing incoming invoices according to priority levels for prompt processing and payment approval.
  • Streamlined payment processing by accurately verifying and entering invoice data into the system.
  • Ensured accurate recordkeeping by maintaining updated supplier contacts and monitoring changes in contact information or banking details.
  • Enhanced company cash flow by promptly reconciling accounts and resolving discrepancies.
  • Reduced processing errors with diligent attention to detail in reviewing invoices and purchase orders.
  • Safeguarded company assets through timely identification of duplicate payments or suspicious activity within the accounts payable system.
  • Developed a strong understanding of industry regulations to ensure compliance when handling sensitive financial information.
  • Prepared and mailed invoices to customers, processed payments, and documented account updates.
  • Followed up with suppliers on outstanding credit notes, incorrect invoices and orders to establish good cash flow.
  • Utilized Microsoft Excel, Google sheets, Ikentoo and Numbers to manage invoices and payments.
  • Handled day-to-day accounting processes to drive financial accuracy.
  • Supported management by processing invoices and documents with consistent on-time delivery.
  • Effectively created, updated, amended and developed wine & food menus using Ikentoo, Adobe & pages.

Restaurant Manager

Zest Restaurant
06.2021 - 12.2021
  • Met, greeted, and encouraged feedback from customers and used feedback to implement positive changes within restaurant.
  • Monitored inventory of supplies and purchased orders to maintain adequate stock levels.
  • Increased restaurant revenue by optimizing table turnover rates and enhancing menu offerings.
  • Quickly identified problem situations and skillfully resolved incidents to satisfaction of involved parties.
  • Carefully interviewed, selected, trained, and supervised staff.
  • Improved overall customer satisfaction by implementing new service standards and staff training programs.
  • Enhanced guest experience by regularly reviewing feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
  • Promoted positive atmosphere and went above and beyond to guarantee each customer received exceptional food and service.
  • Promoted a positive work environment with proactive conflict resolution strategies and team-building activities.
  • Developed positive relationships with clients for special events, promotions, and community outreach efforts to boost brand visibility.
  • Established strong relationships with local suppliers to secure competitive pricing on quality ingredients without sacrificing taste or presentation.
  • Oversaw inventory management processes to minimize waste and maintain optimal stock levels for seamless operation.
  • Reconciled cash and credit card transactions to maintain accurate records.
  • Conducted health, safety, and sanitation process evaluations to identify and remedy any violations immediately.
  • Assisted in development and implementation of new menus to offer variety and options to customers.
  • Increased sales during off-peak hours by creating and promoting special offers.
  • Improved operational efficiency by implementing more effective table management system.
  • Monitored daily operations to ensure seamless service delivery, addressing any issues promptly.
  • Managed staff schedules and maintained adequate coverage for all shifts.
  • Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
  • Developed unique events and special promotions to drive sales.
  • Reduced inaccuracies by carefully counting cash and keeping meticulous records of transactions.
  • Inspected equipment and machinery for proper working condition and directed staff to clean and repair as needed.

Junior Wine Steward

The Social Group
10.2018 - 07.2019
  • Trained service staff on wines, spirits and cocktails to maximize revenue and maintain stellar reputation for service.
  • Oversaw successful bar service and operations to handle as many as 160 guests per day.
  • Handled questions and concerns skillfully and redirected customers toward higher profit items to increase per-ticket revenue.
  • Set up wine tastings to bring in business and promote special offerings.
  • Represented establishment professionally with guests and earned consistent repeat and referral business.
  • Managed cellar and beverage storage maintenance to prevent inventory spoilage.
  • Coordinated wine selection and restocking for cellar with over 200 bottles.
  • Inventoried bar supplies regularly to quickly identify supply shortages and detect problems such as theft.
  • Directed teams to keep workstations clean and neat for professional customer appeal.
  • Incorporated guest and management feedback to deliver unparalleled service and consistently hit profit targets.
  • Organized routine and special event orders to keep adequate inventory for forecasted needs.
  • Coordinated special promotions during holidays or seasonal changes to drive additional revenue during peak periods.
  • Ensured compliance with local regulations regarding alcohol service before serving alcoholic beverages.
  • Maintained an organized and up-to-date inventory system, ensuring accurate stock levels and timely ordering of new products.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalized wine recommendations based on individual preferences and meal choices.
  • Managed the restaurant''s wine cellar, ensuring proper storage conditions for optimal aging and preservation of valuable bottles.
  • Streamlined ordering process through implementation of efficient systems for tracking purchase orders from multiple distributors.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by promptly addressing any concerns or issues related to wine selections or service quality.
  • Developed lasting relationships with suppliers to secure competitive pricing on high-quality wines for the establishment''s inventory.
  • Monitored conditions of wine cellar, keeping all bottles stored at appropriate temperature.
  • Answered customers' questions, recommended items, and recorded order information.
  • Carried out complete opening, closing and shift change duties to keep restaurant working efficiently and teams ready to meet customer needs.
  • Processed orders and sent to kitchen employees for preparation.
  • Collected payment for food and drinks served, balanced cash receipts and maintained accurate cash drawer.
  • Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
  • Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
  • Presented menus to patrons promptly after seating and answered questions about menu items, making recommendations upon request.
  • Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
  • Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
  • Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
  • Liaised with Stock control department for Inventory management and variances.

Wine Sales Representative

Groot Constantia Trust
02.2017 - 09.2018
  • Coordinated with event planners to secure sponsorships or partnerships for various wine-related events, leading to increased exposure for the company and its products.
  • Developed strong relationships with restaurant owners for better wine placement on menus and increased order volume.
  • Collaborated with marketing team to create promotional materials that increased brand recognition among consumers.
  • Increased wine sales by conducting in-store tastings and engaging customers with product knowledge.
  • Educated clients on proper food pairing suggestions for each wine variety, increasing overall enjoyment of the product experience.
  • Trained new sales representatives, resulting in more efficient team performance and improved customer service.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by promptly addressing concerns or inquiries from clients and distributors.
  • Attended regular training sessions to stay updated on current industry trends and knowledge, enabling better representation of the company''s products.
  • Enhanced brand visibility by organizing and participating in industry events such as trade shows, wine festivals, and distributor expos.
  • Performed cash, card, and check transactions to complete customer purchases.
  • Listened to customer needs and desires to identify and recommend optimal products.
  • Engaged in friendly conversation with customer to better uncover individual needs.
  • Built customer loyalty and retention by delivering excellent shopping experiences.
  • Developed strong rapport with customers and created positive impression of business.
  • Stocked merchandise, clearly labeling items, and arranging according to size or color.
  • Delivered energetic responses to customers in-store and by telephone, going above and beyond to serve needs.
  • Managed efficient cash register operations.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of store sales, payment policies and security standards.
  • Provided exceptional services and pleasant shopping experiences to retail customers.
  • Prioritized helping customers over completing other routine tasks in store.
  • Recommended complementary purchases to customers, increasing revenue.
  • Created inviting environment for customers by maintaining store organization and cleanliness.
  • Volunteered for extra shifts during holidays and other busy periods to alleviate staffing shortages.
  • Opened, shelved and merchandised new products in visually appealing and organized displays for optimal sales promotions.
  • Used in-store system to locate inventory and place special orders for customers.
  • Monitored customers for signs of security concerns and escalated issues to management.
  • Worked to meet or exceed special targets for sales, special requests and specific product promotions.
  • Wrapped and boxed products.
  • Assisted customers with onsite tours and tastings.
  • Assisted the stock control and admin department with administrative duties when needed.

Education

Nursing

Robin Trust
Ndabeni
12-2014

High School Diploma -

Norman Henshilwood
Constantia, South Africa
01-2014

Skills

Staff Management

Operations Management

Customer Engagement

Recruitment

Schedule Coordination

Menu development

Team Management

Inventory control and record keeping

Shift Management

Staff Scheduling

Complaint resolution

Point of Sale (POS) system operation

Adaptable

Food Service Background

Conflict resolution techniques

Reservation handling

Catering Coordination

Order delivery practices

Wine Knowledge

Full service restaurant background

Restaurant operations management

Purchasing and cost control

Personnel recruiting

Stable work history

Problem-Solving

Teamwork and Collaboration

Team Leadership

Problem-solving abilities

Quality Control

Time Management

Inventory Control

Multitasking Abilities

Excellent Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Self Motivation

Organizational Skills

Attention to Detail

Goal Setting

Professionalism

Calm and Pleasant Demeanor

Continuous Improvement

Leadership abilities

Task Prioritization

Interests

Art

Reading

Events Coordination & Planning

Gardening

Traveling

Interacting with and meeting new people

Timeline

Restaurant Manager

Homespun by Matt at the Andros
12.2021 - Current

Restaurant Manager

Zest Restaurant
06.2021 - 12.2021

Junior Wine Steward

The Social Group
10.2018 - 07.2019

Wine Sales Representative

Groot Constantia Trust
02.2017 - 09.2018

Nursing

Robin Trust

High School Diploma -

Norman Henshilwood

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