Brad Gubbins
Toronto,Canada
Summary
Detail-oriented hospitality professional with a proven track record in effectively managing daily operations and driving team performance. Experienced in successfully leading various projects, ensuring seamless execution and improving operational efficiency. Possesses strong strategic planning abilities and effective communication skills.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager
Noce
06.2020 - 08.2024
- Managed a restaurant of 75 seats, plus a seasonal patio of 75 seats, ensuring high service and quality standards within a casual fine dining service environment
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, FOH & BOH inventory
- Worked with FOH & BOH management on Food & Beverage menu development and costing.
- Improved operational efficiency by streamlining workflow processes and adopting cutting-edge technology.
- Hired, trained, and managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment
- Managed and maintained Noce's iconic wine cellar, which featured over 350 labels
- Oversaw daily operation, included but not limited to, reservations, POS programming, ordering and overall maintenance of the establishment
Beverage Director
Noce / Aria Ristorante Group
08.2019 - 04.2020
- Developed a cohesive wine and beverage program across two high-volume restaurants, which revamped wine cellars, beer, spirits, and cocktail programs, to generate a complete, profitable, and regulated beverage program.
- Restored and established new brand partnerships to enhance program offerings while creating new programs and events that enhanced guest experience
- Implemented cost control measures for improved profitability without compromising quality or customer satisfaction.
- Managed inventory effectively, reducing waste by closely monitoring stock levels and implementing effective rotation systems.
- Designed beverage menus.
- Maintained highest standards for beverage quality and service.
- Developed unique events and special promotions to drive sales.
Managing Partner - Restaurant/Bar Owner
Founder Bar
05.2018 - 08.2019
- Developed restaurant/bar concept and beverage program, which focused on a craft cocktails, and a French & Local focused wine program that paired with the continental fusion cuisine
- Worked with industry leading bartenders and servers to ensure guests were provided with the highest quality guest experience in all facets of drink, food, and service
- Drove innovation initiatives that resulted in unique food & beverage and service offerings for guests while differentiating the establishment from competitors in the industry.
- Optimized supply chain operations, ensuring timely delivery of products and minimizing costs through effective vendor negotiations and partnerships.
- Fostered culture of continuous improvement, leading by example and encouraging team innovation, which markedly increased productivity and employee satisfaction.
- Oversaw daily operations including event bookings, payroll, investor & landlord relations, bar/restaurant maintenance
Industry Consultant /Small Business Owner
Cordial & Co.
10.2013 - 01.2018
- Work with companies to provide tailored industry insights and strategic recommendations, staff trainings, menu development, marketing and media
- Influenced positive change within client organizations through the implementation of targeted process improvements based on detailed analyses.
- Built strong relationships with clients through clear communication and consistent follow-up on project milestones.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high levels of attention to detail and quality control.
Head Bartender
Thompson Hotel
01.2014 - 02.2016
- Worked with the Food & Beverage Director & Hotel General Manager to re-develop the Cocktail & Beverage program for both the rooftop and lobby bar
- Trained all bartenders on drink recipes, mixing techniques, and customer service skills to enhance overall performance.
- Worked with all other food and beverage outlets to ensure quality and guest satisfaction anywhere in the hotel
- Collaborated with management to create seasonal cocktail menus, driving sales and offering fresh options for guests.
- Cultivated strategic relationships within the hospitality industry to help created innovative menu offerings and special events
- Responsibilities Included: Menu & Beverage development, Staff training, Service, cash outs, Brand partnerships, Consulting with Hotel Events coordinators
Bartender/Server
Figo
06.2015 - 01.2016
- Was responsible for both the service bar and taking care of dining guests at the bar within a high volume, fast paced environment
- Bartenders were responsible for serving a six table section during lunch and slower service times or shifts
- I was responsible for bar organization, making syrups and batching large format cocktails
- Responsibilities Included: Bar and Floor service, ingredient creation, bar setup and break downs
Bar Manager
Spirithouse
04.2010 - 10.2013
- Created a welcoming atmosphere, fostering a loyal customer base and repeat business.
- Curated a premium cocktail and spirits program featuring 300 spirit labels, which became recognized as one of Toronto's premier cocktail and spirit bars
- Recruited, hired and trained staff on bar practices, customer service standards, and productivity strategies
- Develop strong strategic brand and community relationships
- Strategized plans to increase bar revenue through innovative promotional concepts, specialty drinks, and customer-focused events.
- Managed inventory to reduce wastage, ensuring optimal stock levels for daily operations.
- Headed all beverage related media and public relations within and outside the venue at trade shows, event coordination and consulting
Education
Master of Arts - Military History / International Relations
University of Leeds
West Yorkshire, UK08-2004
Bachelor of Arts -
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON08-2002
Skills
- Leadership and team building
- Problem resolution
- Operations management
- Training and development
- Inventory control
- Team player
- Schedule management
- Labor cost controls
- Sales analysis
- Exceptional knowledge of Cocktails, Spirits & Wine
- Proficient in ( Silverware, TouchBistro, Monaris, OpenTable, Seven Rooms, Tock, Atlas, MS Office)
Certification
- Smartserve
Timeline
General Manager
Noce
06.2020 - 08.2024
Beverage Director
Noce / Aria Ristorante Group
08.2019 - 04.2020
Managing Partner - Restaurant/Bar Owner
Founder Bar
05.2018 - 08.2019
Bartender/Server
Figo
06.2015 - 01.2016
Head Bartender
Thompson Hotel
01.2014 - 02.2016
Industry Consultant /Small Business Owner
Cordial & Co.
10.2013 - 01.2018
Bar Manager
Spirithouse
04.2010 - 10.2013
Master of Arts - Military History / International Relations
University of Leeds
Bachelor of Arts -
McMaster University