Jithin Palakeel

A highly skilled and dedicated Hospitality professional with over 14 years of experience in food and beverage service, Restaurant management and hospitality operations. Currently working as a Restaurant manager with Proven expertise in overseeing Restaurant functions, enhancing customer satisfaction, and driving operational excellence. Adept at team leadership, inventory management, budgeting, and staff training, ensuring seamless service delivery and compliance with hospitality standards and hygiene regulations.

Strong ability to handle high-pressure environments, resolve customer concerns efficiently, and implement innovative strategies to optimize performance. Passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences, fostering team collaboration, and contributing to business growth in the Hospitality sector.

RESTAURANT MANAGER - YELLOW PEPPER RESTAURANT (OWNED BY SAFARI GROUP OF COMPANIES) - Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

(2024-09)

• Oversee Restaurant operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, service, and hygiene compliance.
• Lead, train, and supervise staff, ensuring adherence to Restaurant service standards.
• Monitor inventory management, order supplies, and implement cost control strategies to optimize profitability.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and sanitation protocols.
• Manage customer experience, addressing complaints, feedback, and special requests to enhance guest satisfaction.
• Develop and execute marketing strategies, including social media promotions, loyalty programs, and special events to increase sales.
• Coordinate menu planning, pricing strategies, and seasonal offers in collaboration with chefs and kitchen staff.
• Supervise billing, POS transactions, and financial reporting, ensuring accurate cash flow management.
• Organize and oversee reservations, private events, and corporate functions for seamless operations.
• Implement staff scheduling, performance evaluations, and conflict resolution to maintain a motivated workforce.
• Collaborate with suppliers and vendors to ensure cost-effective procurement and supply chain management.
• Drive customer retention strategies, enhancing brand reputation and ensuring repeat business.

RESTAURANT CAPTAIN (F&B) - STEAK HOUSE RESTAURANT - Payyanur, Kannur, India

(2021-01 - 2024-03)

• Ensure tables are elegantly set, dining areas are spotless, and service equipment is in place before each shift.
• Greet guests warmly, escort them to their tables, and present the menu with enthusiasm.
• Provide expert food and wine recommendations to enhance the dining experience.
• Take accurate orders, coordinate with the kitchen and bar, and ensure timely service.
• Anticipate guest needs, respond promptly to requests, and ensure a personalized experience.
• Oversee and support commis de salle, delegating tasks based on guest flow.
• Maintain smooth communication between front-of-house and back-of-house teams.
• Uphold high service standards, ensuring efficiency and guest satisfaction.
• Share in-depth knowledge of cuisine and beverages, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.
• Handle guest feedback professionally, resolving any concerns to ensure a positive outcome.

CATERING MANAGER - SNC(O) MESS, SOUTHERN NAVAL COMMAND, INDIAN NAVY - Willingdon Island, Ernakulam, India

(2017-05 - 2020-12)

• Managed catering operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and service execution.
• Oversaw procurement, inventory control, and budget management, implementing cost-saving measures.
• Ensured compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations while maintaining high cleanliness standards.
• Cultivated client relationships to ensure seamless event execution and high customer satisfaction.
• Led and trained staff, optimizing workflow and enhancing service quality.
• Negotiated vendor contracts and ensured timely delivery of goods and services.

HEAD WAITER - GOLDEN FORK RESTAURANT & CATERING COMPANY PVT LTD - Palarivattam, Ernakulam, India

(2015-06 - 2017-01)

• Provided excellent customer service, ensuring high guest satisfaction and a memorable dining experience.
• Greeted customers, presented menus, and made personalized food and drink recommendations based on preferences.
• Took and served orders efficiently, while up-selling appropriate items to enhance revenue.
• Maintained table settings, cleanliness, and hygiene standards, ensuring a welcoming dining environment.
• Checked product quality and ensured food and beverages met presentation and safety standards.
• Handled payments, delivered checks, and collaborated with the kitchen and service staff for smooth operations.

WAITER - CLUB MAHINDRA RESORT - Munnar, India

(2011-09 - 2015-05)

• Provided excellent customer service, ensuring guest satisfaction and a seamless dining experience.
• Followed hotel brand standards and SOPs, maintaining high service quality.
• Worked closely with team members and managers to enhance restaurant operations.
• Completed daily shift tasks, ensuring smooth workflow and timely service.
• Assisted in inventory checks of operating equipment and supplies.
• Trained and supported junior staff, promoting teamwork and service excellence.
• Completed daily tasks such as mise-en-scene and mise-en-place to ensure smooth workflow and timely service.
• Take and serve food and beverage orders

TRAINEE WAITER - LEELA KEMPINSKI - Kovalam, Trivandrum, India

(2011-05 - 2011-08)

• Gained hands-on experience in food and beverage service, ensuring smooth restaurant operations.
• Assisted in meal service, table setup, and dining area arrangement, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
• Enhanced customer service skills while adhering to hygiene and safety regulations.
• Quickly adapted to new responsibilities, efficiently handling tasks under supervision.
• Displayed enthusiasm for learning, actively contributing to service improvements.
• Built a strong foundation in hospitality and restaurant management, preparing for career growth.

DIPLOMA IN HOTEL MANAGEMENT - Hotel Management - Govt. of Kerala (Food Craft Institute)

HIGHER SECONDARY (12TH GRADE) - Kerala Board of Higher Secondary Examinations

SSLC (10TH GRADE) - Kerala Board of Public Examinations