Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Devon Acker-James

Goleta

Summary

Hospitality professional with a strong foundation in guest service, leadership, and team coordination, paired with academic training in clinical psychology. Experienced in both front-of-house and managerial roles, including guest liaison work, event coordination, and staff supervision. Known for delivering warm, attentive, and personalized service in high-end environments, while maintaining professionalism under pressure. Equally comfortable leading a team or engaging directly with guests to ensure their experience is seamless and memorable. Brings emotional intelligence, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for creating exceptional hospitality experiences.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

CEO, Guest Liaison, and Supervisor

Brisa Tropicalodge
12.2023 - Current
  • Lead and manage a team of over 20 employees in a remote capacity.
  • Personally serve guests and act as a guest liaison to ensure exceptional experiences.
  • Supervised kitchen staff to maintain high culinary and hospitality standards.
  • Oversaw social media strategy, website development, and public relations.
  • Designed and implemented tours and guest experiences tailored to customer needs.
  • Handle outreach and brand partnerships.

DJ and Event Coordinator Assistant

DJJAS Productions
06.2024 - Current
  • Manage the setup and breakdown of audio equipment for events.
  • Film live DJ sets and create content for social media platforms.
  • Assist wedding coordinators during ceremonies and receptions.

Lab Assistant

UCSB META Lab
03.2022 - 06.2023
  • Conducted data collection and guided participants through experiments.
  • Assisted in data analysis and report writing.
  • Handled administrative tasks and maintained research documentation.

Delivery Driver

SNAG
05.2022 - 08.2022
  • Interacted with customers in a courteous and timely manner.
  • Delivered orders efficiently while navigating optimal routes.
  • Ensured the safe handling of all packages and food items.

Intern

Beery's Physical Therapy
06.2021 - 08.2021
  • Created individualized exercise plans.
  • Assisted in physical rehabilitation programs.
  • Supported patients through the psychological challenges of recovery.

Intern

Mariposa County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services
06.2020 - 08.2020
  • Shadowed the county's head psychiatrist.
  • Observed the creation of treatment plans and the administration of medications.
  • Maintained confidentiality and complied with HIPAA standards.
  • Gained firsthand experience in behavioral health interventions.

Desk Attendant

University of California, Santa Barbara
09.2019 - 04.2020
  • Provided customer service to residents and guests.
  • Assisted with resident check-ins and checkouts.
  • Maintained the safety and security of the residential community.

Education

Master of Science - Clinical Psychology

Antioch University Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
08-2026

Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Brain Sciences

University of California Santa Barbara
Goleta, CA
06-2023

Skills

    Leadership: I have led teams in both professional and volunteer settings, consistently promoting collaboration, accountability, and excellence

    Communication: I communicate clearly and professionally with guests, team members, and supervisors, adapting my style to suit the context and audience

    Customer Service: I bring warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism to every guest interaction, ensuring positive and memorable experiences

    Active Listening: I attentively listen to guests and colleagues, responding thoughtfully and with empathy to ensure needs are met and concerns are addressed

    Time Management: I effectively balance multiple responsibilities and deadlines in fast-paced, high-pressure environments

    Compassion & Emotional Intelligence: I connect easily with people from all walks of life and maintain a calm, respectful presence in both hospitality and therapeutic contexts

Timeline

DJ and Event Coordinator Assistant

DJJAS Productions
06.2024 - Current

CEO, Guest Liaison, and Supervisor

Brisa Tropicalodge
12.2023 - Current

Delivery Driver

SNAG
05.2022 - 08.2022

Lab Assistant

UCSB META Lab
03.2022 - 06.2023

Intern

Beery's Physical Therapy
06.2021 - 08.2021

Intern

Mariposa County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services
06.2020 - 08.2020

Desk Attendant

University of California, Santa Barbara
09.2019 - 04.2020

Master of Science - Clinical Psychology

Antioch University Santa Barbara

Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Brain Sciences

University of California Santa Barbara
Devon Acker-James