I am a punctual, reliable hospitality and operations professional with extensive experience across multiple venues in New Zealand and Canberra. I excel in staffing, HR, onboarding, event operations, customer service and driving process improvements to support scalable growth. I thrive in fast-paced environments, lead diverse teams, manage budgets and vendor relationships, and I am passionate about delivering outstanding guest experiences while enabling business growth and operational efficiency.

Utopia Skidmore

I am a punctual, reliable hospitality and operations professional with extensive experience across multiple venues in New Zealand and Canberra. I excel in staffing, HR, onboarding, event operations, customer service and driving process improvements to support scalable growth. I thrive in fast-paced environments, lead diverse teams, manage budgets and vendor relationships, and I am passionate about delivering outstanding guest experiences while enabling business growth and operational efficiency.

Available to hire

I am a punctual, reliable hospitality and operations professional with extensive experience across multiple venues in New Zealand and Canberra. I excel in staffing, HR, onboarding, event operations, customer service and driving process improvements to support scalable growth.

I thrive in fast-paced environments, lead diverse teams, manage budgets and vendor relationships, and I am passionate about delivering outstanding guest experiences while enabling business growth and operational efficiency.

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Work Experience

Executive Assistant - Operations at Epic Hospitality, Wellington
June 1, 2025 - Present
Support the General Manager in overseeing day-to-day operations across five hospitality venues, ensuring staffing levels and service quality. Lead recruitment, onboarding, offboarding and HR administration; manage rosters, leave requests, and compliance. Develop, implement and maintain operational and HR systems to improve efficiency, consistency and policy compliance; provide guidance to staff and managers on HR and operational queries; support leadership with reporting and performance improvements.
Venue Manager at Vinyl Bar, Wellington
April 1, 2023 - June 1, 2025
Oversee daily operations of a high-volume bar, lead a diverse team including bar staff and security; ensure licensing, health & safety and fire safety compliance; coordinate events (live music, DJs, private functions); manage vendor relationships, budgeting and cash handling; analyze sales data, track KPI and drive revenue; resolve customer issues and maintain a safe, welcoming environment.
Customer Support Advisor at Inland Revenue, Wellington
May 1, 2023 - July 1, 2024
Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and resolving issues; streamlined the service process for efficiency; managed high email volume with accuracy; conducted outbound calls to gauge satisfaction; contributed to improved customer experience and company reputation.
Assistant Manager at One Red Dog, Wellington
March 1, 2022 - May 1, 2023
Collaborated with managers to solve problems and handle customer concerns; worked as bar staff and waitstaff; supported the General Manager with a range of tasks; fostered a team-oriented environment; managed dining room seating, monitored budget and inventory; supported marketing campaigns and policy improvements.
Manager at Peppermill Cafe, Porirua
March 1, 2022 - April 1, 2023
Managed cafe operations, including tills and cash handling; greeted customers, discussed specials, took orders; barista duties; prepared cabinet food; motivated and supported staff to improve workflow and productivity.
Restaurant Manager at Chic Bar and Restaurant, Christchurch
August 1, 2020 - February 1, 2022
Coordinated daily restaurant operations, including hiring, cash handling, opening/closing, and guest service; addressed guest concerns; managed event prep and ensured service standards; drove productivity and customer satisfaction.
Manager at Mookie Burger, Canberra
February 1, 2019 - July 1, 2020
Led daily store operations, cash handling, and staff management; prepared beverages and food orders; assigned tasks based on skills; recruited and trained new employees; opened/closed store independently; handled guest concerns professionally.
Waitress at Peppermill Cafe, Christchurch
August 1, 2017 - February 1, 2019
Maintained clean dining areas, assisted customers with product selection; greeted customers, discussed specials, took orders; built positive guest connections.
Waitress at Fix Cafe, Christchurch
August 1, 2017 - February 1, 2019
Maintained clean dining and service areas; assisted guests with questions; supported cafe operations as needed; provided friendly service.

Education

High School Diploma at Riccarton High School
January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2018

Qualifications

LCQ Certificate Level 3 Food and Beverage
January 11, 2030 - December 27, 2025
General Manager Certificate
January 11, 2030 - December 27, 2025

Industry Experience

Travel & Hospitality