Brian Ngusale

Mckinsey Forward Program ’25|

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

About

In the fine art of changing lives through a drink, a service, a positive smile and above all through love and care for the people. My career reflects a refined blend of hospitality management and guest connoisseurship. Leading with a commitment to excellence, my role involves curating outstanding service experiences through timely and genuine friendly interactions.

Experience

  • Served (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
    • Assistant Restaurant Manager
      May 2025 - Present · 1 yr 2 mos

      Implementing Guest experience journeys, Scheduling, Inventory Control

    • Guest Experience
      May 2024 - Apr 2026 · 2 yrs

      • Lead team in optimizing sales and controlling costs, resulting to increase in revenue. • Developed new beverage products to enhance guest satisfaction and engagement. • Conducted training sessions on guest journey and talent development for improved guest experience.

  • JOLT (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia · On-site)
    • Team Supervisor
      Mar 2022 - Jun 2024 · 2 yrs 4 mos

      In my previous role as a Senior Barista at JOLT, I showcased exceptional skills and dedication, which led to my promotion as a Team Supervisor. As a Team Supervisor, I took on additional responsibilities and thrived in leading and managing a team to deliver exceptional service and uphold the highest standards. In my role as a Team Supervisor, I oversaw the day-to-day operations of the team, ensuring smooth workflow and efficient service delivery. I effectively delegated tasks, provided guidance, and motivated team members to consistently exceed customer expectations. Collaboration remained a key focus as a Team Supervisor. I fostered strong relationships with cross-functional departments to streamline processes, improve communication, and enhance the overall customer experience. By promoting a culture of teamwork and open dialogue, I created an environment where everyone felt valued and empowered. I continued to prioritize customer satisfaction by personally handling complex customer inquiries and resolving any issues that arose. By being proactive and attentive to customer needs, I ensured a positive and memorable experience for every individual. Continuous improvement remained at the forefront of my approach as a Team Supervisor. I implemented regular training sessions to enhance the team's skills and product knowledge, enabling them to deliver exceptional service and stay updated with the latest industry trends. Furthermore, I effectively managed inventory and supplies, ensuring optimal stock levels to meet customer demands. By implementing efficient inventory management systems, I minimized waste, reduced costs, and maintained seamless operations. As a Team Supervisor, I embraced my role as a leader, inspiring and motivating my team to achieve excellence. By fostering a positive work environment, providing constructive feedback, and recognizing individual and team accomplishments, I cultivated a high-performing team dedicated to delivering results.

    • Senior Barista
      Jan 2021 - Mar 2022 · 1 yr 3 mos

      In my previous role as a Senior Barista at JOLT, I had the opportunity to excel in providing outstanding customer service and elevating the coffee experience. With a strong focus on training, collaboration, and continuous improvement, I consistently delivered exceptional results while maintaining a positive and professional attitude. As a Senior Barista, one of my key responsibilities was training new and junior staff to meet the Brand's high standards. I took pride in sharing my knowledge and expertise, ensuring that the team was well-equipped to deliver top-quality coffee and service to our valued customers. In addition, I successfully utilized Microsoft Excel and the ERP software to gather and develop reports. This allowed me to analyze data effectively, identify trends, and make data-driven recommendations to enhance operations and improve the overall customer experience. To ensure customer satisfaction, I followed up with customers on a regular basis, addressing any concerns or feedback they had. This proactive approach helped me build strong relationships with our clientele and create a welcoming environment where their needs were met and exceeded. Collaboration played a crucial role in my position, as I actively worked with other departments to ensure seamless operations and exceptional customer service. By fostering open communication and teamwork, I was able to contribute to a cohesive and efficient work environment. I consistently prioritized self-improvement by actively seeking opportunities to enhance my customer service skills and expand my knowledge of the company's products and services. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends in the coffee industry allowed me to provide expert recommendations and guide customers through a diverse range of options. As a Senior Barista at JOLT, I excelled in training, data analysis, customer satisfaction, collaboration, continuous improvement, specialty coffee preparation, and inventory management.

  • Head Barista at Sierra Restaurant
    Mar 2017 - Dec 2020 · 3 yrs 10 mos

    As the Head Barista at Sierra Brasserie, I made significant achievements and impactful contributions to the operations and overall customer experience. With a focus on coordination, customer care, beverage preparation, inventory management, and maintaining a high standard of ambiance, I consistently delivered outstanding results. I successfully coordinated operations between the bar and service department, ensuring a seamless flow of activities and exceptional service delivery. By effectively managing communication and collaboration, I created a harmonious environment that enhanced the overall dining experience for our valued customers. In addition to my bar responsibilities, I provided essential support to the service department, emphasizing customer care and satisfaction. I actively engaged with guests, addressing their needs, and going above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. By providing attentive and personalized service, I fostered strong customer loyalty and positive word-of-mouth. In terms of beverage preparation, I played a crucial role in crafting and serving drinks and beverages to our customers. With a focus on quality and presentation, I consistently delivered exceptional beverages that exceeded expectations. I continuously honed my skills and stayed updated with the latest trends to offer unique and innovative drink options. Managing bar inventory was another area where I excelled. I implemented efficient inventory management systems to ensure optimal stock levels, minimize waste, and meet customer demands. By closely monitoring inventory, I contributed to cost savings and smooth bar operations. Furthermore, I took pride in maintaining the bar and restaurant's ambiance and decor in alignment with the established standards. Through attention to detail and meticulous execution, I created a visually appealing and inviting atmosphere for guests. This contributed to an enhanced dining experience.

  • Java House Africa (Kenya)
    • Assistant Head barista
      Oct 2016 - Feb 2017 · 5 mos

      As an Assistant Head Barista, I took on additional responsibilities, including overseeing the bar operations, training and mentoring junior baristas, and ensuring seamless workflow. I effectively coordinated with the Head Barista and management to implement new strategies and initiatives that enhanced the overall coffee experience for customers. One of my key achievements was spearheading the development of a new signature beverage menu. Leveraging my creativity and knowledge of flavor profiles, I crafted unique and enticing drinks that became customer favorites. This initiative not only increased customer satisfaction but also drove revenue growth for the establishment. I also made a significant impact on customer engagement and loyalty. By implementing a personalized approach to customer service, actively listening to their preferences, and offering tailored recommendations, I built strong connections with our clientele. This resulted in increased customer retention, positive reviews, and a thriving customer base. In addition to customer-focused achievements, I played a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency. Through effective inventory management, I streamlined the supply chain, reduced waste, and optimized stock levels. By implementing new systems and processes, I improved overall bar productivity, resulting in faster service and increased customer satisfaction. As an Assistant Head Barista, I prioritized the growth and development of the barista team. Through comprehensive training programs, individual coaching sessions, and ongoing mentorship, I nurtured a highly skilled and motivated team. This resulted in improved performance, elevated service standards, and a positive team culture that drove success.

    • Barista
      Sep 2014 - Sep 2016 · 2 yrs 1 mo

      As a Barista, I have honed my skills in coffee preparation to an even higher level. With an in-depth understanding of different brewing techniques, extraction methods, and flavor profiles, I am able to consistently deliver exceptional cups of coffee that delight and satisfy customers. Customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of my role as a Barista. I strive to create personalized experiences by actively engaging with customers, understanding their preferences, and customizing coffee creations to their individual tastes. By exceeding their expectations and creating a welcoming atmosphere, I consistently leave a positive and lasting impression. Collaboration and teamwork continue to be essential aspects of my work as a Barista. I actively collaborate with my colleagues, sharing knowledge, techniques, and ideas to ensure a smooth workflow and exceptional service. Together, we create a dynamic and cohesive team that consistently delivers exceptional coffee experiences. Building on my previous experience, I am now entrusted with additional responsibilities, such as managing inventory, maintaining equipment, and training new team members. Through efficient inventory management, I ensure the availability of high-quality ingredients and supplies, minimizing waste and maximizing operational efficiency. As a Barista, I continuously seek opportunities for growth and improvement. I actively participate in coffee competitions, attend workshops, and stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the industry. By embracing these opportunities, I further refine my skills and push the boundaries of coffee excellence.

    • Trainee Barista
      May 2014 - Sep 2014 · 5 mos

      In my previous role as a trainee barista, I demonstrated unwavering enthusiasm and a strong commitment to mastering the art of specialty coffee. I eagerly embraced the opportunity to learn and develop my skills in coffee preparation, customer service, and creating memorable experiences. I immersed myself in the intricacies of coffee, delving into the diverse world of coffee beans, origins, and brewing techniques. I eagerly absorbed knowledge about flavor profiles, extraction methods, and the importance of consistency in delivering a remarkable cup of coffee. Customer satisfaction was always my top priority. I actively engaged with customers, attentively listening to their preferences and adapting my approach to craft personalized coffee experiences. By offering exceptional service and going the extra mile to exceed expectations, I aimed to leave a lasting impression on each customer. Working closely with experienced baristas, I eagerly absorbed their expertise, seeking guidance and feedback to continuously refine my skills. I embraced challenges and eagerly pursued opportunities to experiment with new brewing methods, latte art techniques, and flavor combinations, constantly striving for excellence. Efficient workflow and teamwork were essential aspects of my training. I collaborated closely with my colleagues, fostering a harmonious and efficient work environment. By maintaining effective communication and supporting one another, we ensured smooth operations and provided seamless service to customers. Throughout my journey as a trainee barista, I actively sought hands-on experiences to put my knowledge into practice. Whether it was participating in local coffee events, attending workshops, or volunteering at coffee festivals, I embraced opportunities to immerse myself in the vibrant coffee community and learn from industry experts.

  • Bar Assistant at Sarova Hotels
    May 2013 - Apr 2014 · 1 yr

    In my former role as a Bar Assistant at Sarova Stanley Hotel, I had the privilege of contributing to the transformation of beverage operations and elevating the guest experience to unprecedented levels. With a relentless commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail, I made a lasting impact in several key areas that significantly enhanced the establishment. First and foremost, I took great pride in preparing the basic bar ingredients for operations. By ensuring a steady supply of high-quality ingredients, I facilitated smooth and efficient service, allowing the bar to consistently deliver exceptional beverages to our esteemed guests. Furthermore, I played a pivotal role in setting up the bar area according to the brand's exacting standards. Understanding the significance of creating an ambiance that aligned with the hotel's image, I meticulously arranged the bar, incorporating elements of elegance and sophistication that left a lasting impression on patrons. As an expert in crafting drinks and beverages, I enthusiastically assisted in preparing personalized orders for our customers. With a passion for mixology and an innate understanding of flavor profiles, I skillfully created a diverse range of cocktails and beverages that catered to individual preferences, delighting our guests and ensuring memorable experiences. In addition to my bar responsibilities, I also excelled in events coordination. Drawing upon my organizational skills and attention to detail, I flawlessly orchestrated various gatherings, ensuring seamless service and creating unforgettable moments for attendees. Finally, I understood the importance of maintaining impeccable hygiene and cleanliness standards in both the bar area and the restaurant. Diligently upholding stringent cleanliness protocols, I ensured a pristine and welcoming environment for guests and colleagues alike, guaranteeing their utmost satisfaction.