Benjamin Cruzan
Restaurant Operations Leader | Assistant Manager | Food & Beverage Professional
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About
Restaurant and hospitality leader with progressive management experience across high-volume restaurants, private clubs, fine dining, casual dining, and premium food & beverage operations. Proven success leading restaurants generating up to $3.5MM in annual revenue while managing and developing teams of up to 20 team members. Recognized as a hands-on, situational leader who leads by example, coaches in the moment, and motivates teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
Passionate about developing future leaders, Benjamin has successfully mentored several team members who earned promotions within their organizations. Conversational in Kitchen Spanish, allowing him to effectively communicate with bilingual teams and support day-to-day operations.
Experience
Shift Supervisor - Starbucks - Spring, TX
(2024-03)
- Assist the Store Manager in leading daily operations for a high-volume café.
- Supervise, coach, and develop baristas while maintaining Starbucks' Green Apron Service standards.
- Lead daily shift execution, staffing, customer service, inventory management, ordering, cash handling, and operational excellence.
- Create a positive, engaging work environment focused on teamwork, accountability, and exceptional guest experiences.
Assistant Food & Beverage Coordinator / Food & Beverage Manager - ClubCorp – The Woodlands Country Club & Willow Creek Golf Club - The Woodlands, TX
(2019-08 - 2024-01)
- Assisted in leading daily operations across multiple food and beverage outlets, including casual dining, fine dining, banquet service, private events, and bar operations.
- Supported restaurant operations generating approximately $3.5MM in annual revenue.
- Supervised and developed teams of up to 20 front-of-house team members.
- Partnered with the Service Director to achieve operational and financial goals while delivering exceptional member experiences.
- Coordinated with Culinary, Member Relations, Private Events, and Club Leadership to execute successful member functions and special events.
- Managed staffing levels, scheduling, floor leadership, inventory, purchasing, and operational execution.
- Hired, trained, coached, and mentored employees while creating an engaging, positive culture built on accountability and teamwork.
- Successfully mentored several employees who advanced into larger roles within the organization.
- Built strong relationships with members through proactive communication, service recovery, and hospitality.
Lead Bartender - Lil' Pappas Seafood Kitchen - Houston, TX
(2015-05 - 2017-08)
- Led bar operations for a high-volume seafood restaurant.
- Managed beverage inventory, ordering, and daily operational execution.
- Delivered exceptional guest service while supporting restaurant leadership.
- Built strong guest relationships that increased repeat business and customer loyalty.
Lead Bartender - Joe's Crab Shack - Pearland, TX
(2010-01 - 2011-01)
- Managed bar operations in a fast-paced, high-volume seafood restaurant.
- Maintained beverage inventory while delivering exceptional hospitality.
- Assisted restaurant leadership with daily operational support.
Radiography Technician - Various Employers
(2012 - 2019)
- Worked in highly regulated industrial inspection environments requiring precision, safety compliance, teamwork, accountability, and attention to detail.
- Earned multiple industry certifications while maintaining outstanding safety and quality standards.
Education
Associate of Arts Coursework - Lone Star College
Associate of Arts Coursework - Houston Community College
High School Diploma - Permian High School
