Jill Small, SHRM-CP

Embassy Suites Raleigh/Durham - Cary, NC
June 2025– Present

Lead food and beverage operations for 365/7 hotel outlets including full bar, 60 seat dining room, room service operations Bistro in the Park and Crystal Falls Lounge, including Complimentary Breakfast service and the Evening Reception, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality guest experiences.

Led team of 20 staff members across various service areas, managing hiring, training, and scheduling.

Develop seasonal and signature cocktail features for the Evening Reception to enhance guest engagement and elevate the lounge experience.

Coordinated LBW purchases for banquet functions, ensuring timely procurement.

Assist with beverage menu development, aligning offerings with guest preferences, brand standards, and profitability goals.

Oversee inventory control and vendor relations to maintain cost efficiency and product quality.

Monitored financial metrics such as labor and beverage costs to ensure operational efficiency.

Maintained health, safety, and sanitation standards in all F&B outlets.

Partnered with hotel leadership to synchronize F&B operations with property objectives and guest satisfaction metrics.

• Reported to the East North Carolina District Manager. Managed $5M+ in revenue, exceeding client service expectations.
• Directed Residential Dining, National Retail Brands (Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Moe's Southwest Grill, Java City Coffee, and POD Convenience Stores), and Catering Operations.
• Led a team of 80+ direct reports, fostering a positive work environment and enhancing team collaboration.
• Developed high-performing teams through mentorship, guidance, and professional growth opportunities.
• Established a culture of continuous improvement and open communication.
• Delivered in-depth training, boosted restaurant performance, and reduced waste.
• Maintained compliance with food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.
• Controlled labor hours and inventory costs, tracking food production levels and supply costs.
• Cultivated strong client relationships by delivering exceptional service.
• Implemented Aramark's labor and food initiatives, ensuring Operational Excellence.
• Managed National Retail Brand operations, supervising production, merchandising, quality, and cost control.
• Participated in sales processes and contract negotiations.
• Managed front-of-house dining operations, developing food service plans aligned with client vision.
• Social Media Marketing Manager: Partnering with the marketing team, led social media and marketing efforts, increasing online presence and engagement.

• Reported to Food Service Director, lead staff of eight Managers, twenty-five Supervisors, and ninety supporting Hourly, Part-time, and Student Workers
• Focused on leadership, compliance, client relationship, financial, and productivity for collegiate hospitality food service including oversight of five National Brands: Starbucks, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Chick-fil-A, Provisions on Demand C-Store retailing, and Java City Coffee
• Conceived, developed, and successfully launched new proprietary brand location, Campbell Smoothie Shop

• Developed strong relationships with key clients, ensuring long-term partnerships and repeat business opportunities.
• Assisted in talent acquisition efforts for the service department, identifying top candidates with relevant skills and experience needed to support organizational growth initiatives.
• Oversaw budgeting and financial planning for service department, achieving cost savings through streamlined operations and optimized resource utilization.
• Effectively managed vendor relations to secure competitive pricing on parts and supplies needed for daily operations.