Evan Powell: General Manager in Charleston, SC

• Managed project for construction and design of an upscale, downtown lounge concept. • Established a new, Charleston, luxury brand. Implemented systems and produced training materials for all areas of daily operations including HR, customer service, catering, events, and marketing. • Managed a team of 30 employees with a focus on profit, growth and professional development of team members. • Created forecasting models and comprehensive operating budgets. Established and maintained stringent cost controls for labor and COGS. • Increase revenue 40% in year two, while lowering prime costs 5-7%. • Developed and fostered long-term relations with vendors, sponsors, employees, guests, the local community, and special interest groups.

• Lead member of re-branding team for a corporate, flagship restaurant supporting the only Master French Chef in SC. • Drove incremental sales increases and improve brand awareness and loyalty through promotions, features ?and special events. • Expedited and elevated service operations, hospitality skills, product knowledge, selling techniques and consistent, professionally sound service throughout the organization.

• Event team leader establishing protocol and logistics to develop an enthusiastic, professional and courteous guest experience for Charleston’s first designated member of Leading Small Hotels of the World. • Provided multiple levels of hospitality and service to hotel guests. Built a local clientele base for a new, luxury, hotel pool bar and prime beef steakhouse. • Representative for the luxury brand at off-site special events and most exclusive in-house special events. Consistent top earner.

• Sales and marketing team member for new startup venture importing and marketing fine wines from the Rioja region of Spain. • Planned, coordinated, marketed and hosted weekly wine-tasting events and quarterly wine dinners. Promoted sales and established a successful distribution model. • Established a successful US brand, which was, as planned, sold to a major, regional wine distributor.