Thomas McCarty
Chicago
Summary
Food service operations professional experienced in leadership, client relations, customer service, and process improvement. Proven ability to manage teams, streamline operations, and maintain strong partnerships in high-demand environments.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Barista/Client Services
Crafty, Inc.
10.2023 - Current
- Work for a hospitality company that operates cafés within corporate offices, managing on-site café operations and partnering with client leadership to ensure service quality, efficiency, and alignment with client expectations.
- Act as a key feedback channel between on-site staff and the client liaison, enacting operational adjustments based on client needs and performance metrics.
- Manage inventory levels, vendor ordering, and product quality to balance cost efficiency with client expectations.
- Use operational data to identify workflow bottlenecks and implement process improvements that increase speed, quality, and partner satisfaction.
- Serve as an on-site ambassador for company values and client partnership, interacting directly with the client’s CEO to ensure the café reflects their brand culture and standards.
- Founding team member crucial in designing and launching cafe, shaping its layout, workflow, and daily operations to align with client needs and brand standards.
Barista/Front of House
West Town Bakery
01.2023 - 10.2023
- Delivered exceptional customer service in a high-volume bakery café, assisting guests with orders, answering questions, and ensuring satisfaction.
- Assisted in daily café operations, managing beverage preparation, displays, and workflow to support both the café and restaurant sides of the business.
- Acted as point of contact for clients placing custom cake and catering orders for weddings, corporate events, and more; organizing order details, coordinating with the bakery department, and managing customer pickups to ensure accuracy and a smooth experience.
- Promoted bakery and café offerings through product knowledge and personalized recommendations, driving customer engagement and repeat visits.
Team Lead
Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Supported the successful opening Fairgrounds' flagship cafe, assisting management with training new staff, establishing daily workflows, and preparing the store for launch.
- Led shifts independently, overseeing both front- and back-of-house operations, delegating tasks, and ensuring smooth service during peak hours.
- Resolved guest issues quickly and professionally, maintaining brand standards for hospitality, quality, and efficiency.
- Helped implement new procedures and operational improvements introduced during the café’s opening phase.
- Fostered collaboration within a diverse team and upheld high standards of cleanliness, safety, and performance.
Education
Bachelor of Science - History
Illinois State University
Normal, IL05-2019
Skills
- Ability to Work in a Team
- Ability to Work Under Pressure
- Espresso Machines
- Food Safety
- Restaurant Operation
- Customer Service
- Team Management
- Adaptability
- Leadership
- Service Industries
- Communication Skills
- Inventory management
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Barista/Client Services
Crafty, Inc.
10.2023 - Current
Barista/Front of House
West Town Bakery
01.2023 - 10.2023
Team Lead
Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea
08.2021 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science - History
Illinois State University