Michael Leto
Ladson
Summary
Entrepreneurial Owner with experience and solid history of business success. Built operations from ground up with strategic and scalable approaches. Well-oriented to quickly identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Strong background in company service management and operations. Experience includes overseeing all aspects of the company's performance, from staff recruitment and training, to budgeting and financial management. Strengths lie in leadership, problem-solving, customer relationship building, and strategic planning. Previous work led to improved team efficiency, increased customer satisfaction rates and consistently profitable operations.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Chef at Lil' Leto Catering
Self-employed
Scottsdale
01.2015 - Current
- Prepared diverse dishes using fresh ingredients and seasonal produce.
- Developed innovative recipes to enhance menu offerings and elevate customer experience.
- Trained junior chefs on advanced cooking techniques and kitchen safety protocols.
- Implemented food presentation standards to ensure an appealing dining experience.
- Monitored food quality and freshness to consistently meet culinary standards.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for event services.
- Created detailed event plans and timelines to ensure on-time execution of all tasks.
- Promoted customer satisfaction by delivering knowledgeable and friendly service during interactions.
Server
GrassRoots
Scottsdale
09.2013 - 05.2015
- Delivered exceptional customer service to elevate guest dining experiences.
- Took orders accurately and promptly to enhance efficiency.
- Addressed guest inquiries and complaints professionally, ensuring satisfaction.
- Collaborated with hosts, bussers, and kitchen staff to streamline service delivery.
- Trained new servers to promote teamwork and improve service quality.
- Engaged with customers to build rapport and encourage repeat visits.
- Communicated effectively with kitchen staff regarding allergies or special requests.
- Operated POS terminals for order entry, bill splitting, and total calculations.
Restaurant Owner/Operator of Denny's
JML Foods/Denny's
Scottsdale
07.2009 - 06.2013
- Managed daily restaurant operations, ensuring efficient workflow and high service standards.
- Coached team members on customer service techniques to elevate guest satisfaction.
- Developed weekly employee schedules, assigned tasks, and monitored productivity levels.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly while upholding hospitality quality.
- Gathered guest feedback on food and service, addressing issues and fulfilling additional requests.
- Reconciled daily transactions, balanced cash registers, and deposited earnings at bank.
- Supervised dining room staff activities to maintain service excellence and guest support.
- Oversaw inventory management, focusing on supply ordering and waste reduction.
Manager/Server
Andreoli Restaurant
Scottsdale
08.2007 - 05.2009
- Maintained comprehensive knowledge of menu items and preparation methods to assist guests effectively.
- Welcomed guests with a friendly demeanor, providing attentive service throughout dining experience.
- Trained new servers on menu offerings and restaurant standards to ensure consistency.
- Coordinated with hosts, bussers, and kitchen staff for efficient customer service delivery.
- Resolved customer complaints professionally while fostering positive relationships.
- Managed dining room operations to ensure seamless service flow during peak hours.
- Monitored dining area for cleanliness and organization, maintaining high standards throughout shifts.
- Completed opening and closing checklists to facilitate smooth restaurant operations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Business
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ05-2008
Skills
- Menu development
- Vendor management
- Customer satisfaction
- Problem solving
- Small business operations
- Staff management
- Sales expertise
- Listening skills
Languages
Italian
Elementary
Accomplishments
Five Stars on Google and Yelp for Catering
Timeline
Owner/Chef at Lil' Leto Catering
Self-employed
01.2015 - Current
Server
GrassRoots
09.2013 - 05.2015
Restaurant Owner/Operator of Denny's
JML Foods/Denny's
07.2009 - 06.2013
Manager/Server
Andreoli Restaurant
08.2007 - 05.2009
Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Business
Arizona State University