Don Thomas

Dynamic and results-driven Restaurant Manager with over 17 years of progressive experience in food and beverage operations, restaurant leadership, staff training, and customer service excellence across UAE and India. Demonstrated expertise in profitability enhancement, quality assurance, menu planning, and cost control. Recognized for strong team management, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction strategies.

Highly adaptable, innovative, and driven to achieve organizational goals through leadership, motivation, and continuous improvement. Skilled in restaurant administration, sales optimization, and process excellence within both chain and luxury hotel environments.

Restaurant Manager Operations. - Westwood Hotels - Ajman, UAE

(2024-05 - 2025-10)

• Directed and supervised day-to-day restaurant operations, ensuring adherence to brand standards, hygiene, and service quality.
• Led a team of service and kitchen staff to deliver exceptional dining experiences, resulting in increased guest satisfaction scores.
• Collaborated with the culinary, housekeeping, and front office teams to streamline guest service coordination.
• Monitored inventory, ordering, and cost control, ensuring optimal resource utilization and waste reduction.
• Conducted training sessions and workshops to enhance service skills and compliance with hospitality standards.
• Implemented strategic sales initiatives and cross-selling techniques to achieve and exceed sales targets.
• Oversaw guest feedback systems, analyzed trends, and developed action plans for service improvement.
• Maintained consistent communication with the F&B Director to align operations with overall business objectives.

Operations Manager, Restaurant. - Pizza Hut - Cochin, India

(2022-06 - 2024-04)

• Managed all aspects of restaurant operations including staffing, scheduling, customer service, and financial reporting.
• Ensured compliance with brand standards, food safety regulations, and hygiene protocols (HACCP).
• Monitored team performance, conducted coaching, and motivated staff to achieve individual and collective goals.
• Implemented upselling strategies that increased average check size and enhanced profitability.
• Supervised kitchen and service areas to maintain consistent product quality, speed of service, and presentation standards.
• Resolved customer complaints with professionalism, achieving high guest satisfaction and repeat patronage.
• Controlled labor and operational costs, contributing to improved P&L results.

Food and Beverage Manager - Broad Bean Hotels - Cochin, India

(2021-06 - 2022-02)

• Oversaw daily F&B operations, including restaurant, banquets, and room service departments.
• Coordinated with chefs and vendors to ensure quality sourcing, menu planning, and cost efficiency.
• Developed and enforced standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain operational excellence.
• Trained and supervised staff in guest engagement, upselling techniques, and service standards.
• Maintained inventory control and stock rotation to minimize wastage.
• Implemented revenue management techniques to enhance departmental profitability.
• Managed guest relations and resolved escalated concerns promptly and effectively.

Assistant Restaurant Manager - Best Western Premier - Muscat, Oman

(2017-04 - 2021-05)

• Assisted the Restaurant Manager in daily operations, team supervision, and quality control.
• Coordinated with kitchen and service teams to ensure timely food delivery and guest satisfaction.
• Conducted performance appraisals, training sessions, and service audits.
• Handled cash reconciliation, billing accuracy, and revenue reports.
• Supported implementation of marketing promotions and menu innovations.
• Maintained compliance with food hygiene, health, and safety regulations.

Food and Beverage Supervisor - Best Western Premier - Muscat, Oman

(2016-02 - 2017-03)

• Supervised daily restaurant and banquet operations ensuring guest satisfaction and staff efficiency.
• Assigned duties to waiters and coordinated service during peak hours.
• Managed opening and closing checklists to ensure readiness and cleanliness.
• Conducted pre-shift briefings and provided on-the-job training.
• Assisted in inventory management and requisition planning.

Head Waiter - Best Western Premier - Muscat, Oman

(2013-05 - 2016-01)

• Led the service team in fine dining operations ensuring high-quality guest service.
• Ensured proper table setup, order accuracy, and timely delivery.
• Assisted in training new staff and evaluating performance.
• Supported event setups and special dining functions.

Food and Beverage Supervisor. - Slider Station - Muscat, Oman

(2011-09 - 2013-03)

• Delivered prompt, courteous service while maintaining brand standards.
• Assisted in menu recommendations and upselling beverages.
• Ensured order accuracy and timely service.
• Maintained cleanliness of assigned sections and workstations.

Senior Captain - The Silver Tips - Munnar, Kerala

(2010-08 - 2011-02)

• Supervised restaurant operations, ensuring adherence to service protocols.
• Managed guest seating, coordinated table service, and resolved minor service issues.
• Assisted in daily staff allocation and ensured compliance with restaurant standards.

Waiter - Malabar House Residency - Kerala, India

(2007-10 - 2009-04)

• Provided excellent table service and assisted with food and beverage preparation.
• Maintained cleanliness and ensured guest satisfaction through attentive service.
• Supported the restaurant team during events and high-volume hours.

Bachelor of Business Administration - Hotel Management (BBA-HM) - Allahabad Agricultural Institute, India