Jeff Caires

Hospitality, retail and e-commerce professional with a proven track record of transforming establishments into thriving ventures. Pioneered strategic shifts from restaurant ownership to craft beer and retail domains. Skilled in inventory management, e-commerce, and customer engagement. Expertise in branding, social media, team leadership and operations optimization.

Freelance Photographer, Jeff Caires Photography - 2020-2025

• Working with clients to capture stunning images across various genres, including portrait, event, and product photography. 
• Establishing rapport with clients to understand their vision and deliver exceptional results. Demonstrated ability to translate concepts into captivating visuals, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business.
• Using industry-standard photography equipment and software, including DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom), and other editing tools. Proficient in post-production tasks, retouching, color correction, and image enhancement.
• Managing photography projects from conception to completion. Proven track record of effectively coordinating shoots, collaborating with teams, and delivering final images in a timely manner.

Retail and E-commerce Manager, 4th and 7 - 2020-2023

• Oversaw business transformation from restaurant to retail and built Toronto’s premier craft beer bottle shop. 
• Launched & managed a full-cycle Shopify e-commerce store, boosting revenue by 40% via curated products & seamless UX.
• Customized storefront, cutting bounce rates by 20% & reinforcing brand identity.
• Nurtured customer loyalty by delivering personalized interactions, contributing to 60% rise in repeat sales and enhanced satisfaction.
• Managed a rotating inventory of over 300 beer, cider and wine items including supplier relationships, accounting, and POS management.
• Streamlined inventory operations, optimizing supply chain efficiency for cost savings, and ensuring consistent product availability.
• Developed an in-house web-based delivery system & orchestrated on-time deliveries.
• Oversaw photography, social media management and creative direction of e-commerce site.

Owner and Operator, Tequila Bookworm - 2009-2020

• Rebranded café into full-service restaurant, developed service protocols and policies.
• Led a team of 15 front of house, back of house and administrative staff including hiring, scheduling and training, maintaining high standards of service and staff performance.
• Streamlined day-to-day operations, enhancing customer experience and reducing costs.
• Implemented robust inventory management system, leveraging TouchBistro POS capabilities, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing wastage.
• Established strong vendor relationships, negotiating favorable terms and maximizing procurement value.
• Adapted strategies to industry trends, ensuring the restaurant remained competitive and profitable.
• Designed and executed effective marketing campaigns, boosting restaurant visibility and customer engagement.
• Managed a wide range of hospitality events and bookings, managing planning and logistics to create seamless experiences for guests.

Project Manager, Ad Mill Group - 2004-2006

• Managed large scale GTA-wide distribution projects targeting millions of residents, ensuring precision and timeliness.
• Collaborated with distribution team to optimize efficiency of diverse channels, enhancing Canada Post and private couriers' effectiveness.
• Cultivated partnerships with major grocers, driving widespread GTA household reach through well-executed projects.
• Analyzed data for targeted advertising optimization, maximizing clients' return on investment.
• Supported sales team in client meetings, reinforcing cost-effective distribution schedules.
• Provided cost estimates and guided clients in budget development for transparent deliverables.

August 2006

Digital Photography

George Brown

June 2003

B.A. Economics

McGill University