Jillian Mason

Dynamic and seasoned professional with a 16-year track record in the hospitality and luxury travel industries, offering proven expertise in private event coordination, luxury travel advising, and executive assistance. Recognized for seamlessly managing diverse responsibilities and consistently delivering exceptional service. Adept at cultivating strong client relationships and contributing to the success of high-profile establishments. Demonstrates excellence in dynamic work environments, collaborating effectively across multifaceted roles. Seeking a challenging and growth-oriented position to leverage a unique blend of hospitality and administrative skills in a forward-thinking organization. Known for an unwavering commitment to excellence, a strategic approach to problem-solving, and a strong emphasis on confidentiality and a diplomatic approach.

Gracious Hospitality Management, New York, NY                                                                

July 2023 – January 2024

Executive and Personal Assistant to Founder/CEO

• Orchestrated and optimized daily schedules, ensuring seamless coordination of meetings, personal appointments, family events, dinners, and galas for peak efficiency.
• Coordinated flawless travel arrangements and accommodations for the Founder and Directors, guaranteeing smooth logistical execution.
• Maintained an elevated standard of organization and efficiency in overseeing residential homes, corporate housing, and vehicles.
• Demonstrated precision in managing the Founder's email inboxes, handling responses, follow-ups, and RSVPs with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strategically scheduled and actively participated in meetings alongside the Founder, recording minutes to enhance effective communication.
• Managed the Founder's board participation and events, ensuring impeccable execution to meet organizational objectives.
• Spearheaded the organization of fundraising and social events, significantly contributing to the success of key initiatives.
• Provided invaluable support to the Director of Marketing and Communications by adeptly managing the Founder's social media accounts.
• Executed a diverse range of administrative tasks, including drafting letters, emails, thank-you notes, talking points, bios, fee proposals, letters of agreements, reports, studies, and contracts.
• Processed incoming communication and memos on behalf of senior staff, exercising discernment in handling confidential information.

SmartFlyer, New York, NY                                                                                                        

June 2019 – July 2023

Luxury Travel Advisor Assistant 

• Collaborated with a high-revenue travel advisor, contributing to meticulous planning and execution of luxury travel arrangements.
• Orchestrated and maintained detailed daily calendars, coordinating meetings and events with hotels and DMC vendors.
• Directly communicated with High Net Worth (HNW) clients, ensuring seamless organization of both business and leisure travel.
• Crafted comprehensive proposals with location-specific details and quotes, sourced from online research and hotel partners.
• Efficiently booked and confirmed domestic and international travel, covering airfare, hotel accommodations, and car rentals.
• Curated white-glove itineraries, enhancing the overall client experience with detailed flight and transfer information, hotel reservations, and pre-arranged activities.
• Demonstrated discretion and maintained data integrity while invoicing commissionable reservations in the CRM.
• Tracked and meticulously recorded due and paid commissions, proactively ensuring vendor reconciliation.
• Collaborated with clients to curate personalized travel experiences, integrating individual preferences and requirements.
• Resolved client concerns promptly, ensuring a high level of satisfaction and fostering long-term client relationships.

Café Boulud, New York, NY                                                                                                         

Apr 2018 – May 2019

Private Dining and Banquet Sales Manager

• Achieved and exceeded a $1M+ annual sales target for private events at Michelin-starred CafeÃÅ Boulud and Bar Pleiades.
• Developed and implemented strategic sales plans and marketing strategies targeting high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients to elevate revenue from private and corporate events.
• Orchestrated the successful planning and execution of a sold-out 20th Anniversary Dinner in collaboration with the NYC Food & Wine Festival and renowned Chef Emeril Lagasse.
• Established direct communication channels with The Surrey Hotel, ensuring seamless coordination for hotel buyouts, corporate guest meetings, and private events.
• Coordinated all facets of events and meetings, managing rentals, flower arrangements, and audio-visual equipment to guarantee a flawless client experience.
• Led comprehensive educational meetings with the service team, providing detailed addendums to maintain top-tier quality standards.
• Surpassed fine dining industry benchmarks by consistently delivering exceptional service and exceeding client expectations.
• Assisted clients in navigating seasonal event menus and collaborated with the sommelier for optimal wine pairings.
• Provided the kitchen with prompt and accurate Banquet Event Order forms weekly, ensuring efficient event execution.
• Managed inventory administrative supplies, optimizing resources for seamless restaurant operations.

Parlor Steak & Fish / The Writing Room, New York, NY                                                              

May 2008 – Dec 2015

Private Events and Banquet Sales Coordinator / Maître D 

• Directed the Private Events and Large Parties department for upscale sister restaurants, Parlor Steak & Fish and The Writing Room, on the Upper East Side.
• Played an instrumental role of Maître D in the successful opening of both Parlor Steak & Fish and The Writing Room.
• Spearheaded the implementation and formalization of the events program at The Writing Room in 2014.
• Orchestrated the seamless management of two Private Dining Rooms, Main Dining Rooms, and Bars across both establishments to strategically maximize profitability.
• Maintained meticulous records of event financials, providing daily reports to the CFO and Owner for informed decision-making.
• Initiated proactive discussions with clients to discern their initial requirements, ensuring the seamless success of each event.
• Customized and personalized menus and on-site event activities, aligning them precisely with clientele’s discerning preferences and expectations.
• Facilitated direct and efficient communication between the Chef and Owner to consistently surpass client expectations.
• Provided comprehensive and adept support to the Owner, Management, and Front Desk teams in various administrative tasks.
• Achieved a record revenue in the events department during my inaugural year, surpassing previous years' sales benchmarks.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE:

Seamore's - Brookfield Place, New York, NY                                                                             

Feb 2022 to Jul 2023 Server                                                                                      

• Provided exceptional service at Seamore's in Brookfield Place, delivering a high-quality dining experience to patrons.
• Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth restaurant operations and customer satisfaction.

The Milling Room, New York, NY                                                                                               

Aug 2021 to Apr 2022 Server 

• Contributed to The Milling Room's service team, ensuring patrons received excellent service in a high-end dining environment.
• Managed customer inquiries and requests, enhancing overall dining experiences.

Rotisserie Georgette, New York, NY                                                                                           

Jan 2018 to Apr 2018 Maître D 

• Served as Maître D at Rotisserie Georgette, overseeing front-of-house operations and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
• Managed reservations, seating arrangements, and customer inquiries.

Elli Travel Group, Larchmont, NY                                                                                                 

Apr 2017 - Jan 2018 Luxury Travel Advisor Assistant 

• Supported travel advisors at Elli Travel Group, contributing to the planning and execution of luxury travel arrangements.
• Engaged with High Net Worth clients, assisting with travel logistics and ensuring a seamless experience.

The Ribbon, New York, NY                                                                                                            

Apr 2016 - Apr 2017 Server 

• Delivered exceptional service at The Ribbon, a high-profile restaurant on the Upper West Side.
• Collaborated with the service team to maintain a positive dining atmosphere.

Marymount Manhattan College, New York, NY                                                                                         Bachelor of Arts, Communications