CHETAN SALUNKHE
Abu Dhabi,971
Summary
Experienced Food & Beverage professional with a proven track record in managing multiple restaurants, bars, and large-scale event spaces. Currently responsible for operations of 8 restaurants and bars, a 400-capacity ballroom, and 7 meeting rooms, emphasizing kitchen support and guest satisfaction. Skilled in team leadership, operational efficiency, cost management, and revenue enhancement. Committed to driving innovation and hospitality excellence in a forward-thinking organization.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
2011
2011
years of post-secondary education
Work history
F&B Manager
Le Royal Méridien
Abu Dhabi
2023.06 - 2025.09
- Lead and oversee 8 F&B outlets, including restaurants, bars, and event spaces, serving a diverse guest profile.
- Manage the operations of a 400-capacity ballroom and 7 meeting rooms, ensuring seamless coordination for events and conferences.
- Support and collaborate with kitchen teams to ensure quality, efficiency, and guest satisfaction.
- Led major projects including the expansion and renovation of Illusions Night Club, increasing revenue streams.
- Successfully launched new outlets such as Amalfi Italian Restaurant and Club Lounge.
- Implemented third-party leasing initiatives, notably Salmontini Restaurant, for additional revenue.
- Drove growth in beverage outlets with increased covers and revenue, including Gin Gardens and Beer Gardens.
- Increased seating capacity during summer with AC Tent Activation, generating AED 1 million additional revenue.
- Achieved a 100% increase in Ramadan sales compared to previous year.
- 9% reduction in food costs through strategic initiatives.
- Introduced new entertainment options, elevating outlet attractions and revenue.
- Attained Top 10 TripAdvisor ranking for the property.
- Maintained a successful Marriott audit with a score of 90.4% (green category).
- Developed additional revenue streams through leasing and sustainability projects, including Green Key Certification, ORCA Food Waste Digester, and Vertical Container Farm.
F&B Manager
Sheraton Grand
Dubai
2022.05 - 2023.06
F&B Outlets Manager
Courtyard by Marriott & Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Green Community
Dubai Investments Park, Dubai
2019.10 - 2022.02
Assistant Restaurants & Bar Manager
Courtyard by Marriott & Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Green Community
Dubai Investments Park, Dubai
2017.07 - 2019.10
Restaurant & Bar Supervisor
Marriott Marquis City Center
Doha, Qatar
2014.02 - 2017.07
- Glo cocktail bar & Champions sports Bar
Restaurant & Bar Captain
Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort
Fujairah, UAE
2012.09 - 2014.02
Waiter/ Head Bartender
J W Marriott
Pune, Pune
2010.09 - 2012.09
Intern
Sayaji Hotels
Pune, Pune
2009.07 - 2009.12
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration - Hotel & Tourism Management
MSIHMCT Pune
Skills
Leadership & Team Management
Operational Excellence
Revenue Growth & Cost Control
Project & Outlet Development
Guest Experience Enhancement
Event & Venue Management
Sustainability Initiatives
Beverage Knowledge
References
Available on request.
Hobbies and Interests
Exploring new places for Beverage trends and knowledge, OFF Roading
Accomplishments
- Leader of the Year 2018 (Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai)
- Manager of the 4th quarter, October – December 2017 (Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai)
- Achieved no 1 bar position on TripAdvisor 2016 (Marriott Marquis City center Doha, Qatar)
- F&B Department of the Year 2022 (Sheraton Grand, Dubai)
Additional information
- EXCOM Track (Marriott Executive committee member development course)
- WSET Level 2 in spirits.
Languages
English
Fluent
Hindi
Native
Marathi
Native
Affiliations
- Off Roading, travelling to explore beverage trends and knowledge
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
F&B Manager
Le Royal Méridien
2023.06 - 2025.09
F&B Manager
Sheraton Grand
2022.05 - 2023.06
F&B Outlets Manager
Courtyard by Marriott & Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Green Community
2019.10 - 2022.02
Assistant Restaurants & Bar Manager
Courtyard by Marriott & Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Green Community
2017.07 - 2019.10
Restaurant & Bar Supervisor
Marriott Marquis City Center
2014.02 - 2017.07
Restaurant & Bar Captain
Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort
2012.09 - 2014.02
Waiter/ Head Bartender
J W Marriott
2010.09 - 2012.09
Intern
Sayaji Hotels
2009.07 - 2009.12
Bachelor of Business Administration - Hotel & Tourism Management
MSIHMCT Pune