Sonji Milligan
Charlotte
Summary
Dynamic Catering Supervisor with Chartwells Catering, recognized for enhancing client satisfaction through exceptional service and strategic menu planning. Proven expertise in staff management and food safety compliance, leading to increased repeat business. Adept at fostering relationships and optimizing operational efficiency, ensuring seamless event execution and memorable dining experiences.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Catering Supervisor
Chartwells Catering
02.2022 - 09.2025
- Streamlined catering operations by implementing efficient processes for food preparation, service, and cleanup.
- Managed a team of catering staff members, ensuring proper training and adherence to company standards for quality service.
- Ensured timely setup and breakdown of event spaces while adhering to all safety protocols.
- Enhanced client satisfaction by providing exceptional catering services for various events, including corporate meetings and weddings.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations of catering staff members, identifying areas for improvement and opportunities for growth.
- Maintained strict compliance with local health department regulations regarding food safety and sanitation practices.
- Fostered strong relationships with clients through clear communication about their needs and expectations during the planning process.
- Established an environment of respect among staff members by modeling professionalism in every aspect of our work together.
- Increased repeat business with excellent customer service, addressing client concerns promptly and professionally.
- Continually revised our offerings based on client feedback to ensure we consistently met and exceeded their expectations.
- Oversaw financial aspects of catering operations including budgeting, cost control measures, invoicing, and expense tracking to maximize profitability.
- Mentored junior team members in the art of exceptional service delivery, fostering a culture of excellence within the catering department.
- Assisted in recruiting top culinary talent to maintain a high standard of food quality at all catered events.
- Supervised catering staff at all functions, instructing employees to restock items quickly and to promote exemplary service to guests.
- Monitored and controlled banquet budget and coordinated with events budgets to maximize revenue and minimize expenses while providing quality guest service.
- Maintained extensive calendar of events and attended necessary event meetings and conference calls.
- Maximized team productivity by expertly delegating tasks to kitchen staff.
- Addressed customer complaints with professional demeanor and used communication and problem-solving skills to resolve issues.
- Planned routine upkeep of kitchen equipment and facilities for safe and efficient operations.
- Coordinated kitchen activities with front-of-house staff for seamless and service.
Laundry Attendant
Marriott
05.2006 - 09.2010
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, ensuring optimal productivity and minimal downtime.
- Set up wash and dry cycles with appropriate settings such as spin speed, temperature, and cleaning agents.
- Supported team members in completing tasks efficiently, fostering a positive and collaborative work atmosphere.
- Assisted with cleaning and maintenance of laundry equipment to keep machines in proper working order.
Dietary Aide
Southminster
09.2017 - 02.2022
- Kept all kitchen areas clean, tidy and free of hazards.
- Served meals to residents in accordance with established schedules and dietary procedures.
- Washed plates, cups, serving, and eating utensils and kitchen equipment in commercial dishwasher.
- Coordinated with other dietary aides and kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and timely delivery of meals, contributing to a smooth-running operation.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by maintaining a clean and organized workspace, ensuring timely meal production and delivery.
- Followed all food safety regulations while preparing meals for patients.
- Cleared tables and removed dishes, trays, and utensils from dining room to dishwashing area.
- Assisted in the preparation of nutritious meals for patients with various medical conditions and dietary restrictions.
- Maintained strict levels of cleanliness for tables, floors, and prep areas.
- Added food items, beverages, and utensils to trays and immediately delivered to correct rooms.
- Ensured food safety compliance through proper storage, handling, and sanitation procedures, minimizing risk of contamination or illness.
- Discarded outdated food products and maintained waste disposal procedures.
- Delivered nourishment and supplements to nurse station for distribution to specific residents.
- Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
- Maintained strict adherence to HIPAA regulations when handling patient information, protecting confidentiality at all times.
- Participated in regular team meetings to discuss performance goals, address challenges, and share best practices for continued growth and improvement.
- Upheld efficiency of meal services by pre-setting tables before patients arrived.
- Conducted inventory checks and placed orders for kitchen supplies, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
- Maintained strict hygiene standards in kitchen, significantly reducing cross-contamination risks.
- Ensured timely meal delivery to patients, enhancing their dining experience and satisfaction.
- Followed safety and sanitation policies while handling food and beverages to uphold proper health standards.
- Demonstrated knowledge of menu items and corresponding ingredients.
Lobby Attendant
Hyatt Hotel
05.2015 - 10.2017
- Monitored lobby activity and reported any suspicious behavior to hotel security, maintaining a safe environment for all visitors.
- Maintained a clean and inviting lobby area for guests, ensuring a positive first impression of the establishment.
- Trained new Lobby Attendants on company policies, procedures, and best practices for delivering excellent customer service.
- Managed lost-and-found items effectively by logging details accurately in records system and returning items promptly upon request from rightful owner.
- Assisted in setting up event spaces within the hotel, contributing to successful meetings and conferences held onsite.
- Participated in hotel-wide safety drills and training sessions, maintaining preparedness for emergency situations.
- Ensured timely restocking of essential lobby supplies such as newspapers, brochures, and refreshments for guest convenience.
- Handled complaints from guests in a professional manner, working with management when necessary to resolve issues and maintain customer satisfaction.
- Collaborated with front desk staff to ensure smooth communication regarding guest arrivals and departures.
- Maintained lobby, hallway, and auditorium cleanliness using various sanitation practices.
- Greeted customers with smile and provided friendly, knowledgeable service.
Banquet Captain
Hilton Hotels
03.2013 - 09.2015
- Ensured timely preparation of function spaces according to client specifications, providing them a hassle-free experience on their special day.
- Maintained clear communication channels between all departments involved in banquets, contributing to successful event outcomes.
- Maintained accurate records of event details, client communications, and financial transactions to ensure seamless organization and execution.
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by overseeing banquet operations and ensuring smooth execution of events.
- Managed staff scheduling, resulting in reduced labor costs and improved team efficiency.
- Resolved customer complaints effectively, turning potentially negative experiences into opportunities for improvement.
- Supervised and mentored kitchen and serving staff.
- Conducted post-event follow-ups and gathered client feedback which helped refine operational procedures based on valuable insights.
- Increased repeat business by developing strong relationships with clients and consistently delivering exceptional service.
- Elevated dining experiences by collaborating with chefs on menu planning and presentation.
- Streamlined event execution, leading to smoother operations and happier clients, by training new staff on banquet protocols.
- Reduced event setup times, allowing for more bookings, by optimizing staff assignments and workflows.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with suppliers, securing best products for events.
- Supervised set up of banquet food stations and coordinated service to multiple dining areas.
- Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
- Arranged food, utensils and condiments on trays to serve meals with necessary items.
- Served meals to customers according to established guidelines.
Barista
CLT Airport
03.2013 - 09.2015
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace for optimal productivity and safety.
- Promoted a welcoming atmosphere by greeting customers with a friendly demeanor and promptly addressing their needs.
- Pleasantly interacted with customers during hectic periods to promote fun, positive environment.
- Contributed to a positive team environment through effective communication and collaboration with colleagues.
Housekeeping Supervisor
Hilton Hotel & Suites
02.2010 - 10.2013
- Conducted regular room inspections to verify compliance with housekeeping standards.
- Placed orders for housekeeping supplies and guest toiletries.
- Communicated repair needs to maintenance staff.
- Assigned housekeeping staff to specific shifts and room blocks based on abilities and daily requirements.
- Trained and mentored all new personnel to maximize quality of service and performance.
Education
GED - Medical Administrative Assistant
Connolly Trade
Pittsburgh, PA03.2016
Skills
- Written and verbal communication
- Scheduling staff
- Hygiene practices
- Sanitation standards
- Food presentation
- Food safety compliance
- Food storage
- Relationships and rapport
- Staff management
- Client engagement
- Table setting
- Allergy awareness
- Nutrition
- Basic accounting
- Menu planning
- Strategic direction
- Catering supervision
- Menu costing
- Food and beverage costing
- Catering revenue budget development
- Customer service
- Time management
- Flexibility
- Food safety
- Sanitation and food safety
- Sanitation procedures
- Client relationship management
- Quality assurance
- Dietary restriction compliance
- Order processing
- Event planning
- Personnel supervision
- Event logistics
- Client rapport building
- Timeline planning
- Decor assembly
- Special diet menu
- Teamwork
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking ability
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
- Organizational skills
- Team collaboration
- Team leadership
- Active listening
- Effective communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- Cash handling
- Food preparation
- Relationship building
- Operational efficiency
- Microsoft Excel
- Cooking techniques
- Task prioritization
- Team building
- Safety training
- Cooking
- Nutritional knowledge
- Food and beverage service
- Conflict resolution
- Kitchen equipment operation and maintenance
- Goal setting
- Professionalism
- Task delegation
- Greeting and seating guests
- Hiring and onboarding
- Quality control
- Service training
- Staff training
- Food safety understanding
- Opening and closing procedures
Timeline
Catering Supervisor
Chartwells Catering
02.2022 - 09.2025
Dietary Aide
Southminster
09.2017 - 02.2022
Lobby Attendant
Hyatt Hotel
05.2015 - 10.2017
Banquet Captain
Hilton Hotels
03.2013 - 09.2015
Barista
CLT Airport
03.2013 - 09.2015
Housekeeping Supervisor
Hilton Hotel & Suites
02.2010 - 10.2013
Laundry Attendant
Marriott
05.2006 - 09.2010
GED - Medical Administrative Assistant
Connolly Trade