Charles Schott
Chicago
Summary
Accomplished, acclaimed and published industry expert with a robust track record in budget management, brand development, and effective leadership, boasting over two decades of experience in operations, conceptualization, product sales and support.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
On Premise Hospitality Advisor
Enthuse Marketing, Diageo Hospitality Partnership
Chicago
08.2024 - Current
- Oversaw client relationships, ensuring satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and enhancing retention.
- Established and nurtured relationships with clients across Chicagoland market, fostering loyalty and engagement.
- Drove volume growth across accounts, defying the rest of the market and its volatility.
- Developed innovative ideas and solutions that improved collaboration and outcomes within the team.
Beverage Director
Land and Sea Dept
Chicago
01.2021 - 10.2023
- Orchestrated beverage programs across a diverse portfolio of 3 states, 5 concepts, and 9 outlets, demonstrating adept management of expansive operations.
- Oversaw $20 million in annual beverage sales
- Elevated operational and conceptual approach at Chicago Athletic Association, leading to recognition as one of the "Top 50 Bars in North America" for Milk Room.
- Successfully secured the hosting rights for the 2023 USBG World Class National Finals at Wax Myrtles in Austin, TX, resulting in a significant revenue boost of nearly $200k.
- Spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of the inventory platform, Restaurant365, ensuring Land and Sea Dept achieved accurate COGS for the first time in its 8-year history.
- Rectified longstanding inefficiencies, significantly enhancing organizational profitability and productivity within a decade-long context.
- Maintained operational standards by traveling to Austin and Nashville, overseeing operations for 12 weeks each year.
- Collaborated with Ole & Obrigado to import private label Vinho Verde, "Patio Pounder," across outlets in Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas, expanding brand presence.
Beverage Director/Managing Partner
Parson's Chicken and Fish
Chicago
04.2013 - 10.2023
- Led the strategic partnership with Revolution Brewing to introduce “Parson’s Beer,” selling over 1,500 cases annually across Chicago locations. This initiative enhanced the beer program's profitability by 10% and increased Parson's brand visibility in retail outlets such as Whole Foods.
- Grew the Parson’s beverage program into a high-volume site, achieving the highest sales in the country for brands like Gosling’s Rum, Luxardo, Rhum JM, Control Pisco, El Buho Mezcal, and Revolution Brewing.
- Successfully collaborated with El Buho Mezcal to launch a limited edition “Parson’s Mezcal,” doubling sales for both Parson’s and El Buho in Chicago.
- Established “The Original Negroni Slushy” as a nationally recognized hallmark of the Parson’s brand, solidifying its status as a Chicago institution.
- Negotiated lucrative sponsorship packages, driving financial success and sustainable growth for the brand.
- Oversaw $10 million in beverage revenue across multiple locations.
- Nurtured talent within organization, cultivating an effective and knowledgeable high-volume staff.
- Secured extensive local and national press coverage for Parson’s bar program, featured in Bon Appétit, Travel + Leisure, and Chicago Magazine, and recognized as Mixologist of the Year in 2013 by Chicago Reader.
Head Bartender
Longman & Eagle
Chicago
01.2010 - 04.2023
- Spearheaded the development, maintenance, and operation of an exceptional bar program, consistently earning Michelin Stars each year during my tenure.
- Managed inventory of thousands of rare and unique American Whiskies, ensuring a curated selection that enhanced the bar's appeal.
- Upheld exceptional service standards while mentoring colleagues, fostering a culture of excellence within the team.
- Cultivated diverse, loyal customer base through exemplary service, contributing to Longman's ongoing success.
Skills
Menu development
Beverage program development
Cost management
Inventory optimization
Marketing strategies
Customer service
Customer resolution
Event management
Quality assurance
Public speaking
Timeline
On Premise Hospitality Advisor
Enthuse Marketing, Diageo Hospitality Partnership
08.2024 - Current
Beverage Director
Land and Sea Dept
01.2021 - 10.2023
Beverage Director/Managing Partner
Parson's Chicken and Fish
04.2013 - 10.2023
Head Bartender
Longman & Eagle
01.2010 - 04.2023