David Apoian
Nashville,TN
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with extensive expertise in wine studies and program development, dedicated to delivering exceptional service and fostering client loyalty. Proven ability to enhance customer experiences through innovative wine programs, driving business growth and achieving strategic sales objectives. Skilled in order management, payment processing, and upselling, consistently providing tailored recommendations that cater to individual customer preferences. Well-versed in addressing special dietary requirements and adhering to food safety standards, contributing to a collaborative team environment focused on excellence.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Server / Wine Director
The Standard at the Smith House
Nashville, TN
05.2023 - Current
- Curate and maintain a wine list aligned with the restaurant's goals and clientele
- Collaborate with distributors to source wines and manage purchasing
- Increased wine sales by 16% in first year
- Take regular inventory and make appropriate orders
- Educate guests on wine pairings and selections
- Organize regular wine training for servers
- Assist guests with menu selections to enhance dining experience
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.
Captain
The Continental by Sean Brock
Nashville, TN
12.2022 - 05.2023
- Maintained thorough knowledge of all offerings, including allergens and specials
- Cultivated warm relationships with guests and ensured repeat visits
- Delivered consistently high service standards for a refined dining experience
- Provided personalized menu and beverage recommendations
Lead Server / Bartender
The Cress on the Creek at L'Auberge
Sedona, AZ
05.2022 - 12.2022
- Upheld Forbes Five-Star service standards
- Mentored new staff and upheld service protocols
- Participated in the wine program and conducted pairings
- Guided guests through tasting menus and pairings with confidence
Service Captain
Cucina Rustica
Sedona, AZ
03.2020 - 05.2022
- Led and supported a team of 10+ service staff
- Enforced performance, attendance, and presentation standards
- Trained new hires in menu knowledge, culture, and procedures
- Boosted wine sales through strategic upselling and education
- Acted as liaison between restaurant and corporate office
Server
The Last Word
Livermore, CA
04.2017 - 11.2019
- Provided course-driven service and menu education
- Trained incoming staff on restaurant culture and workflow
- Consistently met sales goals by upselling wine and cocktails
Specialty Team Member
Whole Foods Market
Roseville, CA
03.2016 - 03.2017
- Trained staff on store operations and service standards
- Managed inventory, purchase orders, and customer relations
- Grew product knowledge and boosted specialty department sales
Healthcare Specialist (Combat Medic)
U.S. Department of Defense
Fort Bragg, NC
09.2009 - 06.2013
- Delivered emergency medical care in high-pressure environments
- Conducted diagnostic procedures and administered medications
- Communicated patient status and treatment response to physicians
Education
Associate of Science - Allied Health
06.2016
Skills
- Wine Education & Service
- Inventory Management
- Staff Training & Development
- Sales Strategies
- Guest Engagement
- Menu & Wine Pairing Guidance
- Daily specials memorization
Certification
- WSET Level 2
- Food Handlers
Timeline
Server / Wine Director - The Standard at the Smith House
05.2023 - Current
Captain - The Continental by Sean Brock
12.2022 - 05.2023
Lead Server / Bartender - The Cress on the Creek at L'Auberge
05.2022 - 12.2022
Service Captain - Cucina Rustica
03.2020 - 05.2022
Server - The Last Word
04.2017 - 11.2019
Specialty Team Member - Whole Foods Market
03.2016 - 03.2017
Healthcare Specialist (Combat Medic) - U.S. Department of Defense
09.2009 - 06.2013
Las Positas College - Associate of Science, Allied Health