Carolyn Pate
Charlottesville
Summary
Experienced customer service and sales professional with 10+ years of experience seeking to return to the restaurant industry. Skilled at creating positive customer experiences, handling high-volume environments, and working collaboratively with a team. Eager to contribute a strong work ethic and positive attitude while continuing my education.
Overview
1
1
Certification
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Consultant
Flow Automotive Inc.
Charlottesville, VA
04.2026 - Current
- Developed and maintained strong customer relationships to enhance client satisfaction and retention.
- Conducted product demonstrations to educate potential customers on features and benefits.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new sales opportunities and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align sales initiatives with marketing campaigns.
- Utilized CRM software to track customer interactions, optimize follow-up strategies, and improve conversion rates.
- Advised clients on appropriate product selections based on their unique needs, ensuring optimal satisfaction levels upon purchase.
- Provided sales and customer service assistance to walk-in traffic
Server / Keyholder
Sedona Taphouse
Charlottesville, VA
11.2024 - 04.2026
- Provide attentive, high-quality guest service by taking accurate orders, delivering food and beverages promptly, and resolving concerns with professionalism.
- Guide guests through menu options, offer recommendations, and use upselling techniques to maximize satisfaction and sales.
- Open and close the restaurant as a keyholder, including securing the building, completing cash-handling procedures, and performing walkthroughs.
- Support shift flow by coordinating with servers, hosts, expo, bar, and kitchen teams during peak times.
- Update and maintain Excel spreadsheets for daily inventory, par levels, prep lists, and stock rotation to prevent shortages and reduce waste.
- Use Excel to track side work completion, opening/closing checklists, temperature logs, and daily operational notes.
- Communicate 86’d items, prep levels, and timing updates to the service team to maintain accuracy and set guest expectations.
- Assist with training new team members on menu knowledge, POS processes, and service standards.
- Monitor guest feedback and relay trends or service opportunities to management to support continuous improvement.
Manager
Timberwood Grill
Charlottesville, VA
05.2022 - 06.2024
- Facilitated team building activities to enhance collaboration and communication among staff members.
- Provided exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues in a timely manner.
- Managed positive relationships with vendors to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
- Implemented efficient inventory management strategies to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
- Oversaw and directed staff members in daily operations to maintain high productivity and morale.
Early Childhood Educator
Kindercare
Charlottesville, VA
08.2021 - 05.2022
- Implemented engaging circle time activities to promote social interaction and cognitive development in young children.
- Managed classroom dynamics effectively through positive reinforcement and clear expectations.
- Facilitated open communication with parents to provide updates on their child's progress and address any concerns.
- Designed and implemented age-appropriate curriculum plans to support educational goals and promote learning.
- Provided behavioral support and guidance for children with diverse needs to foster a positive learning environment.
Shift Supervisor / Barista
Starbucks
Charlottesville, VA
01.2020 - 08.2021
- Ensured adherence to strict food safety protocols to maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment.
- Managed cash handling procedures with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Led a team of employees in daily tasks and effectively communicated goals and expectations.
- Demonstrated expertise in brewing coffee and providing high-quality beverages to customers.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and concerns in a timely and professional manner.
- Maintained accurate records of inventory levels and facilitated restocking as needed.
Education
GED recipient -
Thomas Jefferson Adult and Career Education at PVCC
Charlottesville, VA01-2026
Skills
- Guest Relations
- Food & Beverage Service
- Cash Handling & POS Systems
- Upselling & Sales
- Conflict Resolution
- Multitasking
- Quick Learner
- Time Management
Certification
ServSafe
Timeline
Sales Consultant
Flow Automotive Inc.
04.2026 - Current
Server / Keyholder
Sedona Taphouse
11.2024 - 04.2026
Manager
Timberwood Grill
05.2022 - 06.2024
Early Childhood Educator
Kindercare
08.2021 - 05.2022
Shift Supervisor / Barista
Starbucks
01.2020 - 08.2021
GED recipient -
Thomas Jefferson Adult and Career Education at PVCC