Chris DiPietro

Accomplished General Manager and Lead Bartender recognized as 2024 Knox News Sentinel Bartender of the Year. Instrumental in achieving three consecutive titles for Fountain City Social as Knoxville's best cocktail bar. Expert in mixology and cocktail development, enhancing customer loyalty through engaging service. Experienced in bar operations, management, event planning, and social media strategy to drive profitability and team success.

General Manager/ Lead Bartender at Fountain City Social (2023-10 – Present)

• Developed and implemented new monthly and biannually cocktail menu using seasonal ingredients.
• Cultivated strong relationships with customers by engaging in friendly conversation, memorizing drink orders and names to enhance loyalty.
• Hired and trained new bartenders, fostered skill development and teamwork while creating weekly schedules.
• Oversaw daily bar operations, including product ordering and pricing to meet margin targets.
• Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock control to reduce waste and costs.
• Coordinated engaging events to attract customers and enhance their experience to draw in repeat business and create a new customer base
• Fostered a positive work environment, boosting team morale and enhancing collaboration and fun work environment.

General Manager at Bearden Beer Market (2017-02 – 2022-09)

• Oversaw daily operations of bar, market and brewery
• Managed budget, inventory and margins to achieve profitability while maintaining competitive pricing.
• Trained staff on operational procedures, fostering a collaborative team environment.
• Led regular staff meetings that set business goals, address opportunities, and celebrate achievements.
• Developed new beer concepts based on current trends and consumer demand.
• Ordered new products to enhance inventory selection and educating staff and consumers about it.
• Created fun and exciting events through the use of social media.

Lead Bartender at Carolina Ale House (2013-03 – 2017-01)

• Served high customer volumes during special events, enhancing guest experiences and fostering repeat business.
• Cultivated loyal customer base through exceptional service and relationship building.
• Facilitated staff training, sharing bartending techniques and customer service best practices to elevate team performance.
• Opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers.

Head Bartender at Sidesplitters Comedy Club (2009-07 – 2012-12)

• Trained new staff on bar procedures, cocktail recipes, and customer service standards, contributing to consistent service quality.
• Maintained a presentable and well-stocked bar to enhance customer satisfaction.
• Opened and closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring optimal readiness for each shift.