Holli Smith
Operations Manager - Hospitality
Brunswick,VIC
Summary
An efficient, proactive, and enthusiastic professional with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. With a background spanning a diverse range of roles in fast-paced settings, from managing guesthouses to overseeing mobile catering units at major events. Deeply passionate about delivering exceptional customer service, promoting high-quality food and beverage experiences, and driving operational excellence. Showcasing a proven ability to lead teams, enhance sustainability practices, and manage dynamic environments. Eager to bring this skill set and work ethic to a thriving hospitality business.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
5
5
Certifications
Work History
Unit Manager
New York Street Food
Nationwide, England
05.2019 - 03.2023
- Operated a mobile catering unit at major outdoor music events across the UK, delivering exceptional service in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.
- Recruited, trained, and led a team of up to 20 staff, creating a collaborative work environment that consistently achieved results.
- Created and managed staff rosters, ensuring adequate coverage during peak periods, handling unforeseen challenges with efficiency.
- Delivered high-quality food to large crowds, achieving year-on-year sales growth through effective P&L tracking and operational efficiency.
- Managed cash reconciliation and stock management, ensuring financial accuracy, optimal inventory levels, and waste reduction.
- Enhanced sustainability practices, earning the Sustainability Award at Shambala Festival in 2022, and maintained strong relationships with festival officials, suppliers, and customers.
Guesthouse Manager
Stray Cats Bar and Guesthouse
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
12.2016 - 05.2018
- Led and collaborated with an international team to boost sales, increasing profits during the busy season, and successfully promote community events, fostering strong local engagement and making the Guesthouse a community hub.
- Managed guest check-ins and check-outs efficiently for Stray Cats 12 Bungalow Guesthouse, providing a seamless experience for both short-term and long-term visitors.
- Monitored stock levels, coordinated daily deliveries, and ensured smooth operations through accurate supply management.
- Reconciled cash transactions daily, maintaining accurate records and contributing to operational transparency.
- Built strong relationships with international customers, enhancing their experience and promoting the guesthouse's reputation as a welcoming and inclusive destination.
Bar Supervisor
The General Havelock Pub
Hastings, England, Victoria
05.2015 - 05.2017
- Trained, supervised, and motivated bar staff to deliver exceptional service, maintain efficiency, and uphold company standards.
- Managed daily bar operations, including opening and closing procedures, ensuring smooth and efficient service during all shifts.
- Addressed customer inquiries and resolved complaints promptly and professionally, fostering a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
- Monitored stock levels, placed orders, and minimized waste to maintain optimal inventory and reduce costs.
- Oversaw cash handling, reconciled daily takings, and ensured financial records were accurate and compliant with company policies.
- Maintained compliance with licensing laws, health and safety regulations, and hygiene standards, conducting regular audits and inspections.
- Provided hands-on training for six new hires and ongoing development for existing staff of seven, focusing on product knowledge, customer service, and operational procedures.
Education
BSc - Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Science
University of The West of England
Bristol, England 01.2020 - 01.2023
Some College (No Degree) -
Filsham Valley School
Hastings, England 01.2006 - 01.2011
Skills
Leadership and Team Management
Sales Promotion and Marketing
Finance Management & Reporting
Customer Service and Liaison
Stock and Supply Management
Administration and Operations Management
Leadership and Team Management
Certification
Food Hygiene Level 3
Timeline
Full Clean Driving License
04-2024
Food Hygiene Level 3
05-2023
First AID
05-2023
Safe Working with LPG
05-2023
Fire Safety
05-2023
BSc - Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Science
University of The West of England
01.2020 - 01.2023
Unit Manager
New York Street Food
05.2019 - 03.2023
Guesthouse Manager
Stray Cats Bar and Guesthouse
12.2016 - 05.2018
Bar Supervisor
The General Havelock Pub
05.2015 - 05.2017
Some College (No Degree) -
Filsham Valley School
01.2006 - 01.2011
Similar Profiles
Hailey GraberHailey Graber
Crew Member at York Street TreatCrew Member at York Street Treat
Fernando AcaFernando Aca
Jr Account Executive, Customer Service Assistant at Stellae International (Dover Street Market New York)Jr Account Executive, Customer Service Assistant at Stellae International (Dover Street Market New York)
Kelvin Chen Yin YongKelvin Chen Yin Yong
Chef/ Kitchen Hand at Bento on York StreetChef/ Kitchen Hand at Bento on York Street