- Cooking, traveling, Cocktail Craftsmanship, reading
TIMOTHY WAYNE WAITHAKA
Nairobi
Summary
Dynamic and accomplished hospitality professional specializing in mixology, guest relations, and bar operations within Kenya’s top-tier establishments. Renowned for delivering tailored guest experiences, crafting innovative beverage programs, and optimizing bar operations. A proactive team leader skilled in mentoring staff, managing inventory, and executing high-profile events with precision. Committed to exceeding guest expectations and contributing to the success of luxury hospitality brands.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender
Hemmingways Nairobi
07.2025 - Current
- Advanced Mixology and Beverage Expertise: Proficient in creating and presenting classic, signature, and contemporary cocktails with precision, consistency, and creativity, adhering to international luxury bar standards.
- Comprehensive Wine, Champagne, and Spirits Knowledge: Skilled in premium wine and spirits service, including food pairing, decanting, and tasting notes ensuring an elevated guest experience in fine dining environments.
- Specialty Coffee and Barista Proficiency: Experienced in preparing espresso-based beverages, specialty brews, and latte art, maintaining top-tier quality and presentation for discerning guests.
- Luxury Hospitality and Guest Engagement: Demonstrates refined service etiquette, attention to detail, and discretion consistently delivering personalized, memorable experiences aligned with 5-star hotel expectations.
- POS System Mastery and Bar Operations Management: Proficient in modern Point of Sale (POS) systems for efficient order processing and billing, while maintaining organized bar setups, stock control, and team coordination.
Bartender
Sankara Autograph Collection (Marriott)
Nairobi
06.2023 - 06.2025
- Crafted Innovative Cocktails: Designed bespoke beverages that elevated Sankara’s reputation, earning positive guest feedback and enhancing customer loyalty.
- Leadership and Mentorship: Trained bartenders to maintain 5-star standards and fostered a team culture of operational excellence.
- Optimized Bar Operations: Implemented efficient inventory systems, reducing costs while ensuring availability of premium beverage options.
- Event Management: Successfully coordinated high-profile events, ensuring seamless service delivery and memorable guest experiences.
- Menu Innovation: Collaborated with culinary teams to refine beverage pairings and introduce menu offerings aligned with global mixology trends.
Bartender
Simba Corp Hospitality (Nairobi Street Kitchen)
05.2022 - 03.2023
- Seasonal Menu Design: Created high-margin, globally inspired drink menus tailored to diverse clientele, boosting the establishment’s profitability and reputation.
- Guest Satisfaction: Delivered personalized service that enhanced customer loyalty and contributed to positive feedback.
- Team Development: Mentored junior bartenders, promoting teamwork and maintaining brand standards of professionalism and excellence.
- Operational Efficiency: Managed bar setup and inventory to ensure seamless transitions during high-volume operations.
Bartender-Internship
Voyager Beach Resort
Nyali, Mombasa
09.2019 - 07.2020
- Enhanced Guest Experiences: Delivered tailored beverage services to a discerning clientele, increasing customer loyalty and satisfaction.
- Optimized Stock Management: Established effective inventory controls to minimize waste, reduce costs, and maintain premium offerings.
- Exemplary Beverage Craftsmanship: Prepared signature cocktails with meticulous detail, showcasing artistry and professionalism.
- Leadership in Training: Mentored junior staff to promote operational excellence and efficiency across the bar team.
- Streamlined Operations: Efficiently handled high-demand periods, ensuring consistent quality and timeliness in service.
Education
Craft Certificate in Food & Beverage Service and Sales -
Railway Training Institute
Nairobi12.2016
Certificate in Bartending Techniques -
Utalii College
04.2025
Certificate in Professional Barista -
Nairobi School of Coffee by Dormans Coffee
03.2023
Certificate in Professional Bartending -
Nairobi Bar School
03.2022
Diploma in Hospitality Management -
Zetech University
Ruiru03.2019
Skills
- Creative Mixology and Beverage Innovation
- Luxury Guest Experience and Relationship Building
- Leadership and Talent Development
- Bar Operations Excellence
- Strategic Inventory and Cost Management
References
Upon Request
Interests
Timeline
Bartender
Hemmingways Nairobi
07.2025 - Current
Bartender
Sankara Autograph Collection (Marriott)
06.2023 - 06.2025
Bartender
Simba Corp Hospitality (Nairobi Street Kitchen)
05.2022 - 03.2023
Bartender-Internship
Voyager Beach Resort
09.2019 - 07.2020
Craft Certificate in Food & Beverage Service and Sales -
Railway Training Institute
Certificate in Bartending Techniques -
Utalii College
Certificate in Professional Barista -
Nairobi School of Coffee by Dormans Coffee
Certificate in Professional Bartending -
Nairobi Bar School
Diploma in Hospitality Management -
Zetech University