Emma Finnegan
Calgary
Summary
People-driven hospitality leader with 10+ years experience. Specializing in culture building, leadership development and operational consistency. Known for driving sales growth, building high-performing teams, and elevating operational standards through coaching, accountability and strong cultural leadership. Proven track record in labour optimization, sales increasing, selection improvement and developing emerging leaders into confident, empowered operators. Recognized for emotional intelligence, strategic decision making, and an ability to create guest-centric environments that deliver exceptional experiences and consistent results. Currently preparing for AGM progression with a focus on long-term people development, operational excellence, and legacy level leadership.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Bar Manager (9/2/2024-Present)
Saltlik
10.2023 - Current
- Managed daily bar operations, ensuring seamless service and adherence to safety standards.
- Trained and mentored staff on beverage preparation and customer service best practices.
- Developed and implemented inventory control systems to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
- Established relationships with suppliers to negotiate favorable pricing and product availability.
- Conducted regular staff performance evaluations, fostering professional development and accountability.
- Enhanced team productivity through effective scheduling and task delegation.
- Improved selection through recruiting partners who elevated our standard. (14 recruits this year)
- Increased Bar GCA by 17.2% ($8.35) on day sales YOY, and 17.8% ($10.08) on night sales YOY.
Server/Shift Leader
Saltlik
10.2023 - Current
- Promoted a positive work environment, fostering teamwork through regular communication and recognition of outstanding performances.
- Oversaw daily operations of service team, delegated tasks, and trained new staff.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and providing personalized solutions.
- Maximized guest satisfaction by maintaining high-quality food presentation and ensuring prompt service.
- Consistently met or exceeded sales goals through upselling techniques and holding one of the highest GCA's through my serving career.
- Continually updated knowledge of menu offerings and specials to provide accurate information to guests upon request.
Lounge Server
Caesars Steakhouse
08.2018 - 09.2023
- Uphold lounge presentation standards with well-set tables, clean customer areas and stocked stations.
- Stayed up to date on new items on both our extensive wine menu along with modernizing of Caesar's classic menu.
- Delivered expert service to regular guests, learning orders and building rapport to maintain repeat business.
- Increased revenue by suggesting wine pairings and other high-profit beverages.
- Upgraded dining experience with clear objectives, careful monitoring and consistent leadership.
- Maintained team environment and consistently met guests' needs by coordinating daily staff work.
- Greeted new guests and took beverage orders, focusing on quick and accurate service.
Lead Server
Grogan's
09.2016 - 07.2018
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by training employees in service strategies and improving engagement.
- Improved performance by mentoring less experienced employees to strengthen job skills and knowledge.
- Managed high volume dining periods with effective time management and strong multitasking abilities.
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Enforced policies and quality standards through supervision and performance reviews.
- Addressed customer issues by validating complaints and exchanging ordered food.
- Liaised between staff and management to proactively resolve problems and maintain team harmony.
Waitress
The Village Restaurant
02.2015 - 09.2016
- Worked in fast-paced environment, handled multiple priorities and learned new procedures.
- Addressed issues promptly, relaying complaints directly to management.
- Set and bussed tables while maintaining sanitation standards.
- Delivered genuine hospitality and greeted customers upon arrival.
- Cleaned tables, completed closing duties and re-stocked tableware and supplies.
- Advised guests on menu choices, accommodated requests and noted preferences.
Education
PLC - Psychiatric Nursing
Athlone Community College
Athlone, Ireland06.2017
High School Diploma -
Our Ladys Bower
Athlone, IRE08.2016
Skills
- Effective team leadership
- Recruiting and selection
- Hospitality and Service-oriented mindset
- Critical thinking and problem solving
- Coaching and guidance
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Composed and approachable demeanor
Language
English
Certification
- Level 2 Award in Wines, WSET - 05 April 2024 (Merit 72%)
Timeline
Bar Manager (9/2/2024-Present)
Saltlik
10.2023 - Current
Server/Shift Leader
Saltlik
10.2023 - Current
Lounge Server
Caesars Steakhouse
08.2018 - 09.2023
Lead Server
Grogan's
09.2016 - 07.2018
Waitress
The Village Restaurant
02.2015 - 09.2016
PLC - Psychiatric Nursing
Athlone Community College
High School Diploma -
Our Ladys Bower