Creative Hospitality Leader and Brand Director

Christopher “Kit” Yarber

*** * ** ** *** ***

Washington, DC

951-***-**** *********@*****.***

Professional Summary

Dynamic hospitality professional with extensive experience in bartending, bar management, and creative brand direction across some of Washington, DC’s most notable cocktail programs. Known for blending operational excellence with imaginative concept development, from high-volume nightlife service to original bar branding. Recognized for innovation in mixology and featured cocktail creations, strong leadership, and an unwavering commitment to guest experience.

Experience

Bartender — The Golden Age — Washington, DC

September 2025 – Present

·Craft and serve cocktails, beer, and wine in a sophisticated, high-traffic environment.

·Provide personalized guest service while maintaining bar efficiency and presentation.

·Collaborate with management on menu development, seasonal cocktails, and experience design.

·Uphold responsible alcohol service and strict health and safety standards.

Creative Director / Bartender — Never Looked Better — Washington, DC

July 2021 – September 2025

·Directed the creative vision and branding for one of DC’s most distinctive cocktail bars.

·Designed seasonal cocktail menus and aesthetic concepts for events and promotions.

·Delivered consistent, high-quality bar service in a fast-paced nightlife setting.

·Collaborated with ownership to align brand identity with guest experience.

·Trained new bartenders in mixology standards, workflow, and hospitality excellence.

Bartender — Doi Moi — Washington, DC

March 2021 – July 2021

·Served as part of a refined, high-volume Southeast Asian–inspired restaurant and bar team.

·Crafted cocktails to complement an award-winning dining program and guest experience.

·Supported opening and closing procedures with attention to detail and efficiency.

General Manager / Concept Creator — The Passenger / Hex — Washington, DC

January 2019 – August 2020

·Created and launched the “Hex” bar concept within The Passenger, developing its brand identity, cocktail menu, and visual aesthetic.

·Managed day-to-day operations, including staffing, scheduling, inventory, and guest relations.

·One of Hex’s original cocktails was featured in American Airlines’ in-flight magazine, highlighting the program’s creativity and acclaim.

·Fostered a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration among staff and guests alike.

Assistant Manager / Bartender — Leftdoor — Washington, DC

March 2017 – January 27, 2019

·Assisted in management and operations for an intimate, craft-focused cocktail bar.

·Supported bar leadership in inventory control, scheduling, and staff coordination.

·Delivered exceptional guest service and maintained a strong focus on cocktail craftsmanship.

·Helped oversee transitions between service shifts and closing procedures.

Bartender / Distillery Tour Guide — Farmers & Distillers — Washington, DC

November 21, 2016 – March 8, 2017

·Guided guests through the in-house distillery, providing education on spirits, processes, and cocktail applications.

·Served craft cocktails and managed bar operations in a busy restaurant setting.

·Ensured adherence to all safety and alcohol service guidelines while maintaining engaging guest interactions.

Assistant / General Manager / Garde Manger / Event Coordinator — Fly Bar & Restaurant — Tampa, Florida

February 2013 – June 2016

·Oversaw daily operations of a full-service restaurant and bar, including staffing, scheduling, and financial management.

·Led front-of-house team to deliver consistent, high-quality guest experiences.

·Developed and implemented training programs to improve service standards and efficiency.

·Managed vendor relationships, inventory, and cost control to ensure profitability.

·Supported the kitchen team as Garde Manger, preparing and plating cold appetizers, salads, and composed dishes with precision and attention to presentation.

·Coordinated private events and large parties, overseeing planning, logistics, and execution to ensure seamless guest experiences and revenue growth.

Skills

·Advanced Mixology & Cocktail Design

·Brand & Concept Development

·Guest Experience & Team Leadership

·High-Volume Service & Operations

·POS Systems (Toast, Aloha, TouchBistro)

·Cash Handling & Inventory Management

·Event Programming & Promotions

·Staff Training & Mentorship

Education & Certifications

TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) — Certified in Responsible Alcohol Service

ABCA Manager’s License — Active

References

·Tom Brown — Owner, Left Door / The Passenger — 202-***-****

·Smokey Malan — Operations Manager — 703-***-****

·Mick Perrigo — Bar Manager, Left Door — 703-***-****

·Gemini Taubergé-Caum — Lead Server, Fly Bar & Restaurant — 813-***-****

Contact this candidate