Sam Zavari

Background

About Sam Zavari

I'm one of the lucky ones. Every day I get to further explore my passion and enthusiasm for wine, beer, coffee and spirits, including all the other amazing products in the world of beverage. In my current role as Bar Operations Manager at Cactus Club Cafe (platinum member of Deloitte's 50 Best Managed Companies in Canada, and six-time winner of Vancouver Magazine's Best Casual Chain award), I direct the multi-million dollar Beverage Program across all 28 of their full service restaurants in Western Canada. I've worn many hats in my career—certified Sommelier, trainer, manager, strategic planner, purchaser, marketer, mixologist, analyst, menu engineer, etc. As a result, I have a specific set of skills to manage multi-disciplinary projects within the beverage alcohol industry. During my 15 year career at Cactus Restaurants, I've. —Established our restaurant's position as an industry leader through strategic bar menu development, identifying opportunities and staying ahead of trends. —Maximized profit and sales growth, most notably with a 150% company-wide increase in wine sales and an 8% reduction in overall wine cost. —Opened 18 restaurants across two Provinces, each with their own set of distinct market challenges. —Championed many successful bar projects by working closely with multiple departments (Marketing, Purchasing, Design & Construction, Test Kitchen, Operations), providing me with unique insight into the various areas of the business. —Developed and fostered mutually beneficial, long-term business relationships with hundreds of beverage distributors and agents in BC, AB, SK & ON. I'm dedicated and loyal. Calm and creative. Focused and resourceful. Disciplined and honest. Kind and fair. I exercise good judgment and prudence with a balanced level of humility. Oh, and I can admit when I'm wrong! I love making new professional acquaintances. Reach out if you want to talk shop.