Avery Nickel
Stratford
Summary
Highly personable and CPR-certified service professional with a track record of creating memorable guest experiences in fast-paced, international environments. 5+ years in customer service, leveraged three summers of experience as a lead social guide in Portugal to successfully facilitate high-energy events for diverse groups while managing complex logistics and guest safety. Combines the reliability of a seasoned lifeguard and caregiver with the autonomous problem-solving skills gained from extensive international solo travelling. Dedicated to delivering world-class service and enhancing brand reputation through a team-oriented, guest-first mindset.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Server And Bartender
Pazzo Pizzeria
Stratford, ON
09.2024 - Current
- Trusted to manage the entire front-of-house independently during solo shifts, overseeing all guest service and floor management with zero supervision.
- Entrusted with key-holder responsibilities, including executing nightly closing procedures, securing the premises, and managing final cash reconciliations and financial reporting.
- Expertly utilized the Square POS system to process high volumes of transactions, manage open tabs, and generate detailed end-of-day sales audits.
- Provided high-touch hospitality and detailed menu knowledge to ensure a premium dining experience for a discerning clientele.
- Managed full nightly cash and digital payment cycles, consistently delivering 100% accuracy in financial reporting and tip distribution.
Server And Bartender
Boars Head/Work
Stratford, ON
09.2023 - Current
- Managed a high-volume section and the main bar simultaneously, serving up to 200 guest per shift in a fast-paced pub environment.
- Utilized suggestive selling techniques to upsell premium spirits, local craft beers, and popular menu items, contributing to an average of 15% in daily sales.
- Proficiently operated the POS system for accurate order entry, managing cash handling and nightly cash reconciliation with 100% accuracy.
- Prepared a full range of cocktails, poured draft beers, and maintained a clean, stocked, and safe bar area while delivering exceptional, personalized customer service to build a base of regular clientele.
- Ensured rigorous adherence to all provincial liquor laws and food safety standards, including ID verification and responsible alcohol service practices.
Bartender
The Hall
Stratford, ON
11.2023 - 12.2025
- Provided high-volume bar service during diverse private functions (e.g., weddings, corporate events, galas, music events), adapting service style and menu knowledge to meet the specific requirements of each unique event and client.
- Consistently entrusted to manage bar operations independently, including setup, inventory management, high-volume service, and secure nightly closing procedures without supervision.
- Executed accurate cash handling and end-of-night financial reconciliation, ensuring rigorous control over high-value inventory and stock counts for private functions.
- Delivered prompt and professional customer service to a discerning clientele throughout busy event timelines.
- Efficiently executed comprehensive bar setups and tear-downs, ensuring rapid transition times between events while adhering strictly to venue standards and safety protocols.
Pub Crawl Host And Event Planner
JJ's Yard Hostel And Cloud 9 Hostel
Lagos, Portugal
07.2023 - 08.2025
- Greeted and welcomed guests, providing exceptional customer service and detailed information regarding hostel amenities and local attractions.
- Managed check-in/check-out processes and handled cash/credit transactions, ensuring efficient guest arrivals and departures.
- Coordinated bookings across multiple digital platforms (Hostelworld, Booking.com), optimizing occupancy rates to maximize nightly revenue.
- Organized and promoted social events and communal activities, fostering a vibrant, inclusive community engagement among international guests.
- Led nightly excursions for diverse groups of 5–40+ guests, managing on-site logistics and safety while delivering a high-quality hospitality experience that ensured consistent guest satisfaction and repeat attendance.
Au Pair
AupairWord
Vera Playa, Spain
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Adapted to a new international environment, providing dedicated childcare and household support while successfully navigating cultural and linguistic differences.
- Managed daily schedules, meal preparation, and logistics for 2 children, ensuring a structured and safe environment in a high-activity beach setting.
- Entrusted with the full-time care of minors and the management of a private estate, maintaining high standards of safety, discretion, and reliability.
- Demonstrated adaptability and quick thinking by managing unexpected situations or minor emergencies independently while the parents were away.
Co-Op Teacher
St. Aloysius Catholic Elementary School
Stratford, ON
01.2023 - 06.2023
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Implemented innovative teaching strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.
- Assessed student progress and adjusted instructional methods accordingly.
- Adapted teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.
- Facilitated a positive learning environment by implementing positive reinforcement to manage student behavior and minimize distractions.
Barista
Starbucks
Stratford, ON
11.2020 - 06.2023
- Orchestrated rapid beverage production in a high-traffic environment, consistently meeting strict "window time" targets and service speed standards during peak morning rushes.
- Maintained meticulous adherence to standardized recipes and food safety protocols, ensuring consistent product quality and presentation for every guest.
- Delivered an elevated guest experience by building rapport with "regulars" and utilizing active listening to ensure order accuracy and personalized service.
- Managed complex transactions and mobile order flows via the Starbucks POS system, balancing drink preparation with cash handling and inventory restocking in real-time.
On Ice Hockey Assistant
Stratford Aces
Stratford, ON
09.2018 - 04.2022
- Demonstrated technical hockey drills, ensuring proper form and execution through clear visual and verbal instruction.
- Provided real-time corrections and positive reinforcement to young female players, fostering a supportive environment that built confidence and individual skill levels.
- Collaborated with the head coach to design and implement effective practice plans.
- Managed on-ice logistics, including the rapid set-up and transition of nets and equipment to maximize efficient use of limited ice time.
- Maintained a high-energy, positive atmosphere during practices, encouraging sportsmanship and team cohesion among participants.
- Served as a approachable mentor for young female athletes, effectively communicating instructions and safety protocols to ensure a productive learning environment.
Lifeguard
Lions Pool
Stratford, ON
06.2019 - 09.2021
- Maintained constant surveillance of up to 100 patrons, proactively identifying and neutralizing potential safety hazards to prevent accidents in a high-risk environment.
- Trained to execute rapid-response lifesaving protocols, including water rescues, First Aid, and CPR, maintaining a calm and decisive demeanor during high-pressure incidents.
- Assertively communicated and enforced facility rules and safety regulations to diverse age groups, utilizing conflict resolution skills to ensure a respectful and safe communal environment.
- Conducted regular chemical balance testing and equipment inspections, ensuring the facility met all provincial health and safety standards.
Education
High School Diploma -
St Michael Catholic Secondary School
Stratford, ON06-2023
Skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Team oriented
- Ability to stay focused
- Able to make decisions
- Reliable
- Personable
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Certification
- Emergency First Aid And CPR (2023)
- Smart Serve (2023)
- SHSM (2019)
- Emergency First Aid And CPR (2019)
- Bronze Medallion
- Bronze Cross
- Bronze Star
Interests
I am passionate about independent travel, and have completed four solo backpacking trips lasting from 1 to 6 months each Travelling alone has taught me to be safety-oriented, dependable, and the ability to stay calm while effectively navigating unfamiliar environments
Timeline
Server And Bartender
Pazzo Pizzeria
09.2024 - Current
Bartender
The Hall
11.2023 - 12.2025
Server And Bartender
Boars Head/Work
09.2023 - Current
Pub Crawl Host And Event Planner
JJ's Yard Hostel And Cloud 9 Hostel
07.2023 - 08.2025
Au Pair
AupairWord
06.2023 - 08.2023
Co-Op Teacher
St. Aloysius Catholic Elementary School
01.2023 - 06.2023
Barista
Starbucks
11.2020 - 06.2023
Lifeguard
Lions Pool
06.2019 - 09.2021
On Ice Hockey Assistant
Stratford Aces
09.2018 - 04.2022
High School Diploma -
St Michael Catholic Secondary School