Dara Oladejo

Leveraging a 9+ year track record of success across diverse hospitality sectors, I excel in driving operational excellence, building high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. My B.Comm in Hospitality & Tourism Management (Ryerson University, Canada) and HR Management minor equip me with a strong foundation for strategic planning and people leadership. I'm passionate about spearheading growth in dynamic organizations committed to quality and teamwork.

I'm eager to contribute my expertise to achieve outstanding results through effective leadership and a data-driven approach.

General Manager at The House Lagos (2024-07 – Present)

• Drive revenue, brand positioning, and business expansion.
• Oversee daily restaurant operations and service quality.
• Monitor revenue, control costs, and drive profitability
• Manage, train, and motivate a team of 100+ personnel
• Oversee promotions, loyalty programs, and customer engagement.
• Ensure health, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Optimize supplier relations, procurement, and stock control.
• Implement new concepts and industry best practices.

Chief Operating Officer at The 355 Group (2022-03 – 2024-06)

• Cultivated a positive company culture through policy development that fostered employee engagement and the company vision.
• Established a data-driven approach by analyzing business results and taking corrective actions to continuously improve performance.
• Increased market penetration through strategic goal setting for each outlet, informed by market research and forecasting.
• Delivered Growth in revenue by designing and implementing business and growth strategies aligned with the company's mission, vision, and values.
• Managed the opportunity pipeline collaboratively, driving new business opportunities and exceeding financial targets.
• Enhanced profitability by controlling company costs, introducing initiatives to address theft and losses, and overseeing outlet budgets in collaboration with the Managing Director.
• Improved operational efficiency by leveraging system-wide expertise and best practices to deliver services across all outlets.
• Ensured compliance by developing procedures and conducting regular inspections to meet all government regulations and health & safety standards.
• Expanded company footprint by expansion activities and identifying new partnership, sponsorship, and advertising opportunities.

Chief Outlet Officer at The 355 Group (2021-03 – 2022-03)

• Increased profitability through strategic marketing, effective sales promotion, and fostering a customer-centric culture.
• Implemented cost-saving initiatives, resulting in a reduction in operational expenses.
• Implemented short-term financial & operational plans that aligned with overall group objectives, ensuring consistent financial performance across outlets.
• Maintained regulatory compliance across all locations, including federal, state, local liquor laws, and sanitation/safety regulations.
• Improved operational efficiency through equipment maintenance, work order optimisation, and conducting regular inspections.
• Empowered a high-performing team by setting clear individual outlet goals, facilitating regular communication through meetings, and encouraging feedback.

Business Development Executive (Contract) at Casa Straniera (2020-08 – 2021-01)

• Identified and penetrated new market opportunities, resulting in an increase in client acquisition.
• Developed and implemented comprehensive sales processes and marketing campaigns that generated qualified leads.
• Collaborated with senior management to execute effective sales strategies, contributing to a increase in overall revenue.
• Cultivated strong client relationships, ensuring high satisfaction and repeat business.

Group, Conference and Events Strategist at Transcorp Hilton Hotel (2019-05 – 2020-03)

• Successfully coordinated and executed high-profile events such as The Annual Tony Elumelu Foundation Conference, UBA Market Place Expo, and The Wizkid & Burna Boy concert, ensuring guest satisfaction and exceeding expectations.
• Enhanced operational efficiency by collaborating effectively with internal teams (banquet, F&B, audiovisual, kitchen, engineering) and external vendors to ensure seamless event setup, execution, and breakdown.
• Contributed to increased group, conference, and event revenue through upselling, sales analysis & marketing initiatives.
• Maintained accurate financial records by developing event invoices within budget constraints and supporting the finance department in managing guest payments.

Food and Beverage Services Executive at Sheraton Abuja Hotel (2017-11 – 2019-03)

• Served as a bridge between Sales & Marketing and guests, effectively promoting F&B outlets and special offers, leading to increased customer awareness and higher sales.
• Collaborated with the F&B team to improve operational efficiency, contributing to consistent service delivery and overall quality, which boosted guest satisfaction and repeat business.
• Championed the implementation of brand standards and innovative F&B initiatives, ensuring a positive brand experience for guests.

Event Operations Manager at Platinum Events (2016-12 – 2017-08)

• Led all operational aspects for events, ensuring seamless execution from concept to completion, exceeding client expectations for high-profile events like The Irish Embassies St. Patrick's Day celebration.
• Forged strong relationships across diverse areas (venue, F&B, décor, A/V), resulting in cost-effective solutions and event production.
• Managed budgets effectively, overseeing projects ranging from ₦2 million to ₦20 million, and maintaining profitability through meticulous P&L management.
• Contributed to revenue growth by collaborating on strategic marketing (localised outreach, sponsorships, social media campaigns).
• Facilitated post-event analysis to identify areas for improvement and enhance future client experiences.

Customer Relations Assistant at Thobors Boulangerie (2016-05 – 2016-12)

• Efficiently managed customer orders, ensuring accuracy and timely service, which contributed to high customer satisfaction rates.
• Resolved customer complaints professionally, preventing customer churn and maintaining positive brand reputation.
• Delivered exceptional food and beverage service, fostering a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for guests.

Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) in Hospitality and Tourism Management – Ryerson University