Matthew Sykes

As a dedicated languages student with a strong background in hospitality and customer service, I bring excellent verbal communication skills, a friendly yet professional attitude, a passion for bar work, and a proven ability to work effectively as part of a team. I am confident in serving customers with attention to detail, and my time as bar staff in such a fast-paced, busy venue such as St James' Park has given me a proactive approach to tasks. Working in such a venue has given me the skills to work calmly under pressure, often dealing with difficult customers, taking the initiative to support the needs of the team.

I also spent a year studying abroad, which demonstrates my independence, adaptability, and communication skills. I'm confident in handling feedback constructively and resolving conflict calmly when needed. I'm now seeking a role in a dynamic setting and am highly flexible with shifts to support the needs of the team.

Newcastle United Matchday Bar Staff at Sodexo Live! (2025-07 – Present)

• Fast paced environment, serving many customers in a short time frame
• Maintained cleanliness and organisation behind the bar
• Friendly and efficient customer service during busy periods
• Confident in handling payments
• Excellent communication skills, often dealing with customers from overseas who do not speak good English
• Strong problem-solving skills, adapting when equipment fails
• Ability to work under pressure
• Health and Safety training

Translating Newcastle Research Internship at Newcastle University (2025-10 – 2025-11)

• Public engagement and event coordination, demonstrated by hosting a tour of Newcastle for attendees
• Organisational and time management skills, demonstrated by helping to plan the route for the tour of Newcastle, following a strict time limit

Kitchen Porter at Mexicali Restaurant Holmfirth (2021-01 – 2022-12)

• Ability to thrive in a team environment in a busy restaurant, with up to 100 covers a night
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work proactively and independently, ensuring all work is to a high standard
• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in line with health and safety regulations

BA (Hons) in Modern Languages with Study Abroad – Newcastle University (2022-09 – 2026-06)

A-Levels in Spanish, Sociology, and Music – ABB

GCSEs in 8 GCSEs including Maths and English