Justin Hunter Jones
Denver
Summary
Experienced hospitality leader with a strong foundation in both operations and beverage program development. Currently serving as Assistant General Manager at Safta in Denver, with a key role in shaping and executing a high-performing beverage program. Background includes sommelier experience at The Wolf’s Tailor and opening leadership at Hey Kiddo, alongside extensive tenure with Andrew Carmellini’s NoHo Hospitality in New York. Combines service-driven leadership, deep beverage knowledge, and operational discipline to build cohesive teams, elevate guest experience, and drive revenue growth. Well-positioned to lead a concept-forward program such as Mezcalaria Alma with a focus on agave spirits, culture, and hospitality excellence.
Overview
5
5
years of post-secondary education
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant General Manager
Safta
Denver
12.2024 - Current
- Created wine list and beverage program to enhance guest experience.
- Coordinated daily operations to optimize workflow and strengthen team collaboration.
- Coordinated daily operations to optimize workflow and strengthen team collaboration.
- Streamlined inventory management processes to ensure optimal stock levels.
- Implemented customer service protocols to improve guest satisfaction experiences.
- Supported budget planning by gathering financial data and collaborating with departments. and expense management for operational needs.
- Provided training, guidance, and support to staff members on proper procedures and policies.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner while maintaining a professional demeanor.
Captain / Sommelier / Wine Cellar Lead
Id Est Hospitality
Denver
02.2021 - 03.2023
- Started with I.E. Hospitality at The Wolf’s Tailor and then helped open Hey Kiddo.
- Demonstrated extensive knowledge of wine, cocktail, and NA pairings, assisting Front Wait and Back Wait positions during floor Bev Expo.
- Managed wine cellar, organizing stock and conducting inventory to maintain accurate records in RASI.
- Engaged guests with storytelling techniques to enhance their dining experience.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Trained front-of-house staff on restaurant policies and procedures, guest service techniques and communication skills to promote positive experiences.
Consultant
Le Fond
Brooklyn
08.2020 - 09.2020
- Managed FOH service operations to ensure seamless guest experience on the floor.
- Developed Employee Handbook to streamline onboarding for new hires on SOPs and service protocols.
- Designed Beverage Manual detailing products with maps, appellations, producer history, and tasting notes for staff reference.
Dining Room Manager
NoHo Hospitality
New York
02.2010 - 03.2020
- After starting as a Server at Locanda Verde I quickly became a Trainer and eventually moved to Bartending the adjacent Greenwich Hotel private area for guests/PXs.
- Shortly thereafter, I was promoted to Floor Manager at The Dutch, running service for a bustling Sollo eatery with 164 seats, 20-top PDR and 40+ FOH employees.
- Cultivated guest relationships while conducting new employee orientation and training, enhancing team integration.
- Edited menu, aligned staff with forecasted business levels, managed CGS inventory, and maintained vendor contacts to support profitability.
- Coordinated with beverage director, GM, and AGM on daily operations; conducted pre-shift meetings and participated in weekly management meetings to ensure service excellence.
Education
Course work within the Associate of Applied Science - Graphic Design track
Parsons School of Design
New York, NYBachelor of Arts - Advertising with an Emphasis in Music
University of Colorado at Boulder
Boulder, CO 08.1999 - 12.2004
Skills
- Financial Oversight
- Performance Metrics
- Inventory Management
- Team Leadership
- Staff Development
- Conflict Resolution
- Staffing
- Hot Schedules
- Harri
- Google Workspace
- Microsoft Office
- Dropbox
- Administration
- POS
- Micros
- Aloha
- Lightspeed
- Toast
- Reservations
- RESY
- Sevenrooms
- Open Table
- Beverage program development
- Wine inventory management
Awards Certificates
201
Timeline
Assistant General Manager
Safta
12.2024 - Current
Captain / Sommelier / Wine Cellar Lead
Id Est Hospitality
02.2021 - 03.2023
Consultant
Le Fond
08.2020 - 09.2020
Dining Room Manager
NoHo Hospitality
02.2010 - 03.2020
Bachelor of Arts - Advertising with an Emphasis in Music
University of Colorado at Boulder
08.1999 - 12.2004
Course work within the Associate of Applied Science - Graphic Design track
Parsons School of Design