Safiye Kovalcik

Experienced hospitality leader with over 10 years' experience in customer-focused environments and in senior management. Proven track record of leading high-performing teams, delivering exceptional guest experiences, driving operational excellence, and maintaining high standards across all areas of hospitality operations. A hands on and commercially aware manager who thrives in fast-paced environments, with experience in staff development, recruitment, training, health and safety compliance, event management, and customer satisfaction.

Passionate about creating positive guest experiences while developing and motivating teams to achieve business objectives.

Deputy Manager - Mitchells & Butlers - Bromley

(2021-01)

• Lead daily operations within a busy hospitality venue, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and high operational standards.
• Manage, coach and develop a diverse team, supporting performance, engagement and career progression.
• Drive service excellence by maintaining strong floor presence and leading by example during busy trading periods.
• Support recruitment, onboarding and training of new team members.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety, licensing and company procedures.
• Handle customer feedback and resolve issues effectively to maintain high satisfaction levels.
• Work closely with senior management to achieve business targets and operational objectives.
• Coordinate events and functions, ensuring seamless delivery and outstanding customer experiences.
• Manage stock control, labour deployment and operational efficiencies.

Event Manager - Chop & Chip Co - Blackheath, London

(2021-01 - 2021-12)

• Lead event manager for a catering company serving private, corporate, and family-focused clients, including events involving children and young people.
• Planned and managed events with attention to safeguarding requirements, particularly when working at family events and school functions.
• Recruited and trained staff, ensuring adherence to appropriate codes of conduct, hygiene, and safeguarding protocols.
• Oversaw the preparation and safe handling of food and equipment in compliance with health and safety regulations, including allergen awareness critical in child-centered events.
• Liaised with clients and venue staff to ensure all safeguarding policies were clearly communicated and upheld during events.
• Conducted thorough site visits to assess risks and ensure safe environments.
• Supervised catering delivery on-site, ensuring that staff maintained a professional and responsible presence.

Chalet Host - Ice and Fire Ski and Snowboard Holidays Limited - Les Coches, France

(2019-01 - 2020-12)

• Delivered exceptional guest experiences for international holidaymakers.
• Managed chalet operations, food service and guest relations.
• Responded effectively to guest requests and unforeseen situations.
• Maintained high standards of cleanliness, hospitality and service.

Overseas Holiday Advisor - TUI PLC - Turkey & Fuerteventura

(2014-01 - 2015-12)

• Ensured the welfare and wellbeing of families abroad, including supporting medical issues and travel stress.
• Delivered engaging welcome talks to large groups.
• Supported guests with emotional and practical needs in unfamiliar environments.
• Managed emergency situations with professionalism and care.

DipHe - Events Management - University of Greenwich (2016-09 - 2018-09)

BTEC Extended diploma - Creative Media Production - The Brit School for Performing Arts & technology

AS level - ART & DESIGN - The Brit School for Performing Arts & technology

GCSE - Charles Darwin Secondary School Biggin Hill