Carla Hoffman
Gold Coast,QLD
Summary
Motivated and adaptable individual with a strong background in customer service, operations, and sales support across hospitality and retail industries. Recognised for managing multiple priorities, delivering and building exceptional client experiences and relationships, staying composed under pressure, and maintaining a solutions-focused approach, in a fast paced environment.
Years of hospitality and retail experience have not only sharpened my communication, problem-solving, and service skills but also shaped me into a confident and professional communicator. I excel at resolving customer issues, identifying growth opportunities, and contributing to a positive team culture. With a strong work ethic and a proactive mindset, I bring a “can-do” attitude to every task and thrive on learning new skills.
In addition to hands-on service experience, I have a solid understanding of media and strong technical proficiency across platforms such as Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, and basic coding softwares. I’m a fast learner, eager to continue developing my capabilities and grow within the media and advertising industry.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Barista All rounder
Hazel Espresso
Gold Coast, Southport, QLD
03.2024 - Current
- Lead barista responsible for daily coffee and beverage preparation during high-volume service periods.
- Execute opening and closing procedures, including cash handling, setup/breakdown, and venue cleanliness.
- Manage stock levels, place supply orders, and coordinate delivery logistics to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Handle phone inquiries, customer complaints, and booking requests with professionalism and efficiency.
- Ensure consistent compliance with food safety standards and presentation expectations.
- Deliver high levels of customer satisfaction through personalised service and attention to detail. Upholding brand quality and customer loyalty by maintaining high standards across all areas
Barista and Cat Cafe Host
Crazy Cat Cafe
Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise , QLD
03.2024 - 05.2024
- Independently operated the café, managing all daily operations including barista duties, food preparation, customer service, and the care of over 20 cats.
- Maintained high standards of hygiene, stock control, and animal welfare—administering medication, grooming, feeding, and monitoring cat health.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations, including guest capacity in the cat room, food and drink service, and animal care protocols.
- Managed all bookings and inquiries via phone and walk-ins, processed POS transactions, and handled end-of-day cash reconciliation.
- Carried out opening and closing procedures, thoroughly cleaning cat enclosures and all service areas to uphold both guest satisfaction and animal wellbeing.
- Followed strict food safety protocols (I’m Alert certified), ensuring all stock and deliveries were properly labeled, stored, and rotated.
- Maintained clear communication with the broader team to support seamless operations and service consistency.
Waitress & Host
Mr PP’s Rooftop Bar & Deli
Gold Coast, Southport , QLD
11.2023 - 03.2024
- Delivered premium service in a high-volume, customer-centric venue with returning clientele.
- Handled all aspects of service, working opening to closing shifts, including working as a bartender, working in the kitchen, and running front of house, handling inquiries for events, product distribution and bookings. Managing table setup ups, front of house service, and POS operations. Always supporting venue operations by leading service in event executions for private functions and weddings, flexibly assisting in all areas.
- Managed OpenTable reservations and answered inquiries with professional communication.
Retail Associate
Universal Store
Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, QLD
10.2023 - 02.2024
- Provided styling assistance to customers, with a focus on curating outfits for events or specific occasions.
- Maintained brand visual standards and high-quality merchandising across the store.
- Processed transactions and refunds accurately, as well as, processing online orders following procedures efficiently and consistently.
- Prioritised customer satisfaction by anticipating needs and delivering tailored solutions with a warm, approachable manner.
Waitress & All Rounder
Beach Cafe
Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, QLD
07.2022 - 10.2023
- Cross-trained in multiple roles including barista, bar, cold drinks station, FOH service, kitchen pass and food and drink prep.
- Managed opening and closing shifts, stock runs, and consistently keeping service areas and stock rooms organised and clean.
- Delivered friendly, knowledgeable table service while upselling specials and beverages.
- Supported onboarding and training of new staff, maintaining operational flow and team morale.
- Maintained calm, solution-focused responses when resolving customer complaints or service issues.
Sales Associate
Mystique Rattan
Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, QLD
03.2022 - 01.2023
- Independently operate market store, set up and pack down retail marquee daily, ensuring merchandise was visually appealing and safe.
- Provided tailored customer service, listening closely to needs and making informed product recommendations.
- Handled POS operations, processed sales and refunds, managed bank cash deposits, and utilised Microsoft Excel to create weekly invoices for employee payroll.
- Built strong relationships with recurring customers to drive return visits and sales conversions.
- Actively promoted featured products and offers to increase daily revenue.
Education
High School Diploma -
St Hilda’s
Gold Coast, Southport11-2021
Diploma - Business
Barrington College
Gold Coast, Southport 09-2021
Bachelor of Design - Graphic Design
Griffith University
Gold Coast, SouthportSkills
- Experienced and knowledgeable with technology and in utilising applications such as, Microsoft softwares
- Organised with a high attention to detail
- Initiative driven with a proactive mindset
- Always positive and a strong can-do attitude
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Fast learner with adaptability across industries
- Strong customer service skills providing high customer focus
- Highly supportive team member
Certification
- Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)
- I’m Alert Food Safety Training
References
- Phi long
Hazel Espresso Owner
+61 415 953 469
career@hazelespresso.com
- Sanchini Maligaspe
Beach Cafe Manager
+61 497 196 711
Timeline
Barista All rounder
Hazel Espresso
03.2024 - Current
Barista and Cat Cafe Host
Crazy Cat Cafe
03.2024 - 05.2024
Waitress & Host
Mr PP’s Rooftop Bar & Deli
11.2023 - 03.2024
Retail Associate
Universal Store
10.2023 - 02.2024
Waitress & All Rounder
Beach Cafe
07.2022 - 10.2023
Sales Associate
Mystique Rattan
03.2022 - 01.2023
High School Diploma -
St Hilda’s
Diploma - Business
Barrington College
Bachelor of Design - Graphic Design
Griffith University