Thabani Kevin Matuku
Hospitality/Restaurant Manager
Durban
Summary
Experienced and effective manager with over a decade of experience in the hospitality and restaurant industries, primarily in managerial positions. Played key roles in both developmental and operational aspects, resulting in significant improvements to establishments' product and service offerings. Possesses a diverse and promising skillset that fosters positive team relationships, leading to optimal customer service. Passionate about the food service industry and eager to contribute years of experience and growth to another flourishing establishment.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Front of House Manager & General Manager
Cowfish Florida Road
08.2023 - Current
- Implemented inventory control measures to reduce waste, lower food costs, and improve overall profitability.
- Managed financial aspects such as budgeting, payroll processing, and cash handling procedures to ensure accurate accounting practices.
- Streamlined reservation processes, improving guest experience and maximizing seating capacity during peak hours.
- Conducted regular evaluations of staff performance, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for growth within the organization.
- Provided exceptional customer service by anticipating guests'' needs from arrival through departure.
- Conducted regular staff meetings to provide updates, address concerns, and maintain open lines of communication among team members.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by efficiently managing front-of-house operations and addressing guest concerns promptly.
- Monitored guest feedback on review platforms Google and Dine Plan; implemented changes based on trends observed in comments received.
- Maintained a clean, welcoming environment by overseeing daily cleaning tasks and ensuring adherence to health codes.
- Resolved conflicts among team members diplomatically while maintaining a positive work atmosphere conducive to collaboration.
- Collaborated with back of house management to ensure seamless communication between kitchen and service staff for optimal dining experiences.
- Maintained positive team environment by encouraging teamwork and respect in accordance with company mission.
- Managed day-to-day FOH operations to drive quality, standards, and meet customer expectations.
- Developed and maintained relationships with vendors and other business partners to establish trust and build rapport.
- Coordinated with suppliers to establish timely delivery of food and beverage items.
Director of Hospitality
Gonto Group
1 2018 - 12.2022
- Hospitality and Events Sector Service Provider
- Developed and executed strategic plans to drive revenue growth in the hospitality sector.
- Managed budgets and financial performance, ensuring profitability while maintaining excellent service quality.
- Served as liaison between executive management and events department.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging feedback from guests as well as employees.
- Revamped food and beverage offerings by working closely with culinary teams, leading to increased customer satisfaction ratings.
- Established strong relationships with vendors, securing favorable pricing and terms for products and services required in the industry.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new opportunities for business expansion within the hospitality sector.
- Led a team of professionals in delivering exceptional guest experiences and maintaining high-quality standards.
- Introduced new technologies to improve operational efficiency, streamline processes, and enhance overall guest experience.
- Oversaw facility management projects, ensuring timely completion without compromising on quality or safety standards.
- Implemented staff training and development programs, resulting in a highly skilled and customer-focused workforce.
Manager
Memorable Occassions
3 2017 - 12.2018
- Catering and Decor Supplier
General Manager of Operations
La Vue Floating Restaurant
11.2014 - 10.2016
- Restaurant and Events Venue.
- Fully Operational Motor Yacht.
Manager
De La Sol Cocktail Bar and Sports Bar
02.2012 - 07.2013
- Cocktail Lounge Bar and Sports Bar
Education
BBA - Business Administration
REGENESYS Business School
Johannesburg, South Africa 04.2022 - Current
Higher Certificate in Business Management - Business Management
REGENESYS Business School
Johannesburg, South Africa 01.2022 - 11.2022
Matric -
GLENWOOD BOYS HIGH SCHOOL
Durban, South Africa 01.1998 - 12.2002
Skills
Leadership
Customer Service
Interpersonal skills
GAAP/Pilot POS
Organizational skills
Detail Orientated
Critical Thinking skills
Goal and conversion tracking
Guest Relations
Complaint Handling
Order Accuracy
Food Safety Compliance
Customer Feedback Analysis
Certification
Higher Certificate in Business Management
Languages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
IsiZulu
Intermediate (B1)
Timeline
Front of House Manager & General Manager
Cowfish Florida Road
08.2023 - Current
BBA - Business Administration
REGENESYS Business School
04.2022 - Current
Higher Certificate in Business Management - Business Management
REGENESYS Business School
01.2022 - 11.2022
General Manager of Operations
La Vue Floating Restaurant
11.2014 - 10.2016
Manager
De La Sol Cocktail Bar and Sports Bar
02.2012 - 07.2013
Matric -
GLENWOOD BOYS HIGH SCHOOL
01.1998 - 12.2002
Director of Hospitality
Gonto Group
1 2018 - 12.2022
Manager
Memorable Occassions
3 2017 - 12.2018
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