Christopher Mesa
Sunland,CA
Summary
Professional service industry and beverage specialist with robust experience in managing beverage programs and driving sales growth. Passionate about team collaboration and ensuring seamless operations in fast-paced environments. Highly skilled in inventory management, vendor relations, and crafting innovative beverage menus. Dependable and adaptable, always focused on delivering exceptional results.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Bar & Beverage Manager
Sandbourne Hotel Santa Monica
01.2025 - Current
- Spearheaded the complete development and execution of Sandbourne’s beverage program, including concept creation, seasonal menu design, and visual cocktail presentations tailored to the coastal brand identity
- Directed procurement, vendor negotiations, and inventory systems across multiple bar outlets, implementing cost-saving strategies while maintaining premium quality standards
- Oversaw day-to-day bar operations for restaurant, lobby, pool bar, banquets, and in-room dining
- Introduced batching systems, clarified cocktails, and specialty martini programs, streamlining prep and enhancing service efficiency
- Collaborated with culinary leadership and hotel management on brand activations, promotional events, and amenity offerings that drove revenue and elevated guest experience
General Manager/Bar Director
Pez Coastal Kitchen
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth
- Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations
- Established comprehensive employee training programs to develop skills, improve productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations
- Drove the successful execution of numerous large-scale events/promotions while closely managing costs/budgetary constraints associated with event planning/management activities
- Negotiated with suppliers to secure better pricing, reducing operational costs while maintaining product quality
- Developed and executed strategic plans for business growth and expansion, resulting in increased market share
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty
General Manager/Bar Manager/Bar Director
Pez Cantina
06.2017 - 01.2024
- I worked for this company since 2016. I started as a server and worked my way up to General Manager.
- Curated wine, spirit list and cocktail menu for both Pez Pasadena and Pez DTLA
- Collaborated with vendors for better pricing, leading to increased profit margins
- Designed creative cocktail recipes that became popular among guests, driving repeat business
- Developed staff training programs to enhance employee knowledge and skillsets in the beverage industry
- Established strong relationships with suppliers, securing high-quality products at competitive prices
- Monitored market trends to stay ahead of competitors in offering unique beverages tailored to customer preferences
- Designed beverage menus
- Oversaw selection, ordering and inventory controls of wine, beer and alcohol program
- Boosted customer satisfaction by implementing innovative bar management strategies
- Streamlined inventory management for optimal stock levels and reduced waste
- Collaborated with kitchen team for seamless integration of food and beverage offerings
- Safeguarded compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations in all operations
- Introduced new cocktails to the menu based on market research that became popular choices amongst customers
Beverage Manager
Nick And Stef's
01.2017 - 06.2019
- Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service
- Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately
- Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams on various projects/initiatives aimed at enhancing organizational performance results
Bar Manager/Floor Manager
Mas Malo
01.2016 - 07.2018
- Coordinated themed nights attracting different demographics expanding overall clientele
- Followed strict recipes and drink measurements to minimize product used
Education
No Degree - Business Administration And Management
Pasadena City College
Pasadena, CAHigh School Diploma -
Cathedral High School
Los Angeles, CA06.2006
Skills
- P&L Management
- Process Automation
- Customer Relationship Management
- Project Management
- Staff Supervision
- Advertising and Marketing
- Expense Control
- Quality Management
- Loss Prevention
- Vendor Sourcing
- Vendor Negotiations
Timeline
Bar & Beverage Manager
Sandbourne Hotel Santa Monica
01.2025 - Current
General Manager/Bar Director
Pez Coastal Kitchen
01.2024 - 01.2025
General Manager/Bar Manager/Bar Director
Pez Cantina
06.2017 - 01.2024
Beverage Manager
Nick And Stef's
01.2017 - 06.2019
Bar Manager/Floor Manager
Mas Malo
01.2016 - 07.2018
No Degree - Business Administration And Management
Pasadena City College
High School Diploma -
Cathedral High School
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