Robert Rivera
Des Plaines
Summary
Dynamic Banquet Houseman with over 11 years of experience in orchestrating seamless setups and resets of banquet rooms for various events, ensuring every detail aligns with high hospitality standards. Proven expertise in food and beverage service, complemented by a comprehensive understanding of furniture arrangements and linen management, contributes to creating memorable guest experiences. Adept at multitasking in fast-paced environments, equipped with strong problem-solving skills to address challenges swiftly and effectively. Committed to delivering exceptional service while maintaining punctuality and a customer-focused approach in all interactions.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Banquet Manager
Aloft Hotel
09.2021 - 10.2025
- Set up and broke down conference and banquet rooms to meet facility standards and specifications.
- Coordinated with vendors to provide seamless event experiences, from setup to teardown.
- Oversaw scheduling of banquet staff while maintaining optimal staffing levels during peak seasons without compromising on quality service delivery.
- Provided exceptional service to guests by immediately addressing needs and requests.
- Organized banquet storage and surrounding areas to facilitate access to products and materials.
- Ensured timely preparation of food and beverage stations, resulting in smooth event execution.
- Handled guest complaints and offered complimentary services to maintain high guest satisfaction rates.
Banquet Houseman
Hilton
Rosemont
11.2014 - 03.2020
- Reset ballrooms and meeting spaces by disassembling furniture and storing equipment properly.
- Prepared audio-visual components for events by assembling video screens, dance floors, and sound systems.
- Delegated tasks for cleaning and breaking down materials after events to ensure timely readiness.
- Set up event rooms by emptying garbage, straightening chairs, and restocking supplies.
- Applied appropriate cleaning chemicals according to established protocols for various surfaces.
- Organized banquet storage areas to enhance accessibility to products and materials.
- Maximized production efficiency by delegating tasks under tight deadlines.
Limousine Driver
Chicago Elite Car Service
11.2006 - 11.2014
- Conducted routine pre- and post-trip inspections to evaluate vehicle conditions and maintenance needs.
- Achieved safety targets by adapting driving techniques to various road and traffic conditions.
- Maintained accurate personal logs and business documentation in compliance with scheduling requirements.
- Exhibited professionalism and discretion while servicing high-value clients.
- Generated referrals and repeat business through prompt and friendly service delivery.
- Sanitized vehicles thoroughly between customer appointments to ensure cleanliness.
- Mapped efficient routes to minimize passenger disruption and adhere to schedules.
- Completed all documentation for individual and business accounts punctually and accurately.
Certified Forklift Operator
Tek Graf
06.2004 - 10.2006
- Employed strapping and bracing techniques to mitigate load shifting risks.
- Unloaded trucks and rail cars, relocating materials to staging areas efficiently.
- Revised procedures to enhance compliance and minimize operational risks.
- Cultivated a safety culture among drivers and warehouse teams.
- Supervised daily warehouse operations, ensuring effective shipping and receiving processes.
- Maintained service quality through the establishment of organizational standards.
- Trained new staff on job duties, policies, and safety protocols for swift onboarding.
- Enforced safety policies, promoting proper handling of equipment and products.
Education
GED -
City Colleges of Chicago - Wilbur Wright College, Clemente
Chicago, ILSkills
- Room assessment
- Inventory replenishment
- Effective closing procedures
- Efficient order management
- Skilled in resolving conflicts
- Event venue management
- Workforce development
- Customer service excellence
- Calendar management
- Effective leadership
- Supply replenishment
- Equipment testing
- Guest relations
Certification
- TIPS certified
Timeline
Banquet Manager
Aloft Hotel
09.2021 - 10.2025
Banquet Houseman
Hilton
11.2014 - 03.2020
Limousine Driver
Chicago Elite Car Service
11.2006 - 11.2014
Certified Forklift Operator
Tek Graf
06.2004 - 10.2006
GED -
City Colleges of Chicago - Wilbur Wright College, Clemente