Howard Argus
Shepparton,VIC
Summary
A seasoned self-employed entrepreneur with a proven track record in hospitality and management, I excel in guest relations and revenue management, significantly enhancing customer satisfaction and business growth. At Castle Creek Motor Inn, I honed my skills in complaint handling and staff supervision, achieving operational efficiency. My expertise in property maintenance and guest services management drives results, ensuring a competitive edge in the marketplace. Energetic Accommodation Facilities Manager enthusiastic about delivering superior service to every guest. Successful at cutting costs without impacting quality of service and guest satisfaction. History of driving company growth through a program of continuous improvement in all areas of the operation.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
Motel Manager/Owner
Self Employed
06.2012 - Current
- Handled guest complaints efficiently, resolving issues quickly to maintain satisfaction levels consistently high.
- Improved guest satisfaction by implementing efficient check-in and check-out procedures.
- Coordinated events held at the motel facility, ensuring seamless execution of special occasions that met clients'' expectations.
- Managed daily operations for better customer service and increased revenue.
- Trained staff on best practices, enhancing overall motel performance and guest experience.
- Conducted regular property inspections to address maintenance issues promptly, maintaining a well-kept appearance for the motel.
- Streamlined housekeeping processes to ensure clean and comfortable rooms for guests.
- Enhanced communication among team members by discussing updates, challenges faced during daily operations, and possible solutions.
- Increased repeat business through excellent customer service and targeted marketing efforts.
- Reduced expenses with effective cost control measures in purchasing and payroll management.
- Developed strong relationships with local businesses to increase referrals and drive business growth.
- Maintained high occupancy rates by implementing competitive pricing strategies and promotions.
- Analyzed financial reports to identify areas of opportunity for revenue growth or expense reduction while maintaining quality standards in all aspects of the motel operation.
- Overhauled safety protocols, ensuring a secure environment for guests and employees.
- Continuously researched market trends and competitors'' offerings to stay ahead in the industry and maintain a competitive edge.
- Ensured compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to hospitality industry requirements as well as health and safety guidelines.
- Increased customer service ratings through personable service.
- Provided service and assistance to guests upon check-in.
- Hired and trained new employees, demonstrating best methods for serving clients and guests.
- Booked large groups for weddings, seminars, conferences, and other events, providing best available room rates.
- Greeted and assisted guests by gathering information pertaining to reservations or requests.
- Handled guest complaints and offered complimentary services to maintain high guest satisfaction rates.
- Developed and implemented strategies to optimize operational efficiency and maximize profits.
- Monitored and evaluated performance of personnel to confirm compliance with standards.
- Offered appropriate reservation options based on expected attendees when coordinating events.
- Negotiated with vendors to obtain favorable rates for goods and services while maintaining good working relationships.
- Oversaw day-to-day operations of 17-room motel with staff of 4 casual employees and 1 relief manager
- Solicited and reviewed guest feedback and promptly resolved complaints.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Evaluated industry competition regularly to maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
- Successfully navigated challenging economic conditions by making informed decisions that protected the business''s financial stability.
- Monitored market conditions to set accurate product pricing and take advantage of emerging trends.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
Cafe Manager/Owner
Self Employed
07.2009 - 07.2011
- Oversaw daily cafe operations to maintain smooth workflow in both front-of-house and back-of-house areas.
- Delivered excellent customer service experiences by addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
- Trained cafe employees to consistently exceed customers' expectations and provide superior service.
- Established a welcoming atmosphere, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and presentation throughout the cafe.
- Filled in for absent employees in any position in cafe, keeping operations efficient even when short-handed.
- Handled business administration functions such as payroll, cash register counting, and supply ordering.
- Responded to customer inquiries and resolved complaints to establish trust and increase satisfaction.
- Introduced new menu items to add variety and selections and meet customer preferences.
- Ensured compliance with food safety regulations by implementing strict sanitation protocols and employee training initiatives.
- Streamlined cafe operations for increased efficiency and reduced waste, with thorough inventory management.
- Implemented cost saving measures to reduce operational costs and align with budget.
- Trained staff on proper cooking procedures as well as safety regulations and productivity strategies.
- Reduced health risks and safety hazards by preparing beverage products consistently while creating cleaning schedules, restocking items and sanitizing equipment to adhere to health department standards.
- Oversaw food preparation and monitored safety protocols.
Accommodation Manager
Self Employed
07.2004 - 07.2009
- Negotiated with Local Council to establish a backpacker facility in Mooroopna ensuring adherence to Local , State and Federal Regulations.
- Streamlined reservation processes for increased efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers, securing favorable terms and long-term partnerships for the business.
- Negotiated with local Employers and Job agencies to provide staff for mainly harvest and fruit processing facilities.
- Spearheaded renovations projects as needed, overseeing contractors'' work quality while minimizing disruption to guests and operations.
- Conducted regular inspections of accommodations to ensure adherence to cleanliness and safety regulations.
- Optimized room allocation strategies based on guest preferences and booking patterns for maximum utilization of available space.
- Improved guest satisfaction rates by implementing effective guest relations and personalized services.
- Sourced employment for travelling holiday makers ( working holiday visas)
- Provided accommodation for upto 40 beds over 5 properties
- Provided transport to and from various places of employment
- Organised entertainment and day trips for holiday makers
- Oversaw facility maintenance efforts to maintain a clean and safe environment for guests and staff members.
Truck Driver
Bonlac , McColls Transport, Rick Allen Transport
07.1993 - 07.2004
Railway Line Maintenance
Vline
07.1988 - 07.1993
Air Dispatcher
Australian Army
05.1985 - 05.1988
Education
No Degree -
Moroopna High School
Mooroopna05.1985
Skills
- Reservation Management
- Front Desk Operations
- Property Maintenance, grounds and Buildings
- Complaint Handling
- Security management
- Guest Relations Management
- Revenue management
- Hospitality
- Guest services management
- Cash Handling
- Safety Procedures
- Guest complaint resolution
- Staff Supervision
- Employee Scheduling
- Property Management Systems
Timeline
Motel Manager/Owner
Self Employed
06.2012 - Current
Cafe Manager/Owner
Self Employed
07.2009 - 07.2011
Accommodation Manager
Self Employed
07.2004 - 07.2009
Truck Driver
Bonlac , McColls Transport, Rick Allen Transport
07.1993 - 07.2004
Railway Line Maintenance
Vline
07.1988 - 07.1993
Air Dispatcher
Australian Army
05.1985 - 05.1988
No Degree -
Moroopna High School
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