Gold Reef City recently announced the appointment of their new Food and Beverage Manager, Rudi Swart. He has served in various positions within Tsogo Sun, with a total of nine years’ experience with the group and almost 20 in the hospitality, gaming and entertainment industry.
The 41-year-old from Krugersdorp says, “The great culture within Tsogo Sun and the passion of its employees is what makes it easy to come to work every day. Knowing that we are a part of every guest experience is why I love the hospitality industry.”
After completing his diploma in Food and Beverage Service at City and Guilds, Swart began his career as a bartender at Emerald Casino and Resort. He steadily honed his skills and eventually took on the role of Food and Beverage Supervisor within Salon Privè – the exclusive space offered to high rollers – where he catered for 100 VIP guests of the Casino.
Thereafter, his duties extended to the Casino and Resort’s restaurant as well as two bar areas on the gaming floor. By 2003, he was promoted to Assistant Food and Beverage Manager – a testament to his work ethic and passion for food and hospitality.
He joined Silverstar Casino as Privé Host in 2009 and was promoted to Assistant Food & Beverage Manager two years later. In 2014, he was made Manager of the Billy G Restaurant, where he drew on his previous experience of managing eateries such as Café Paparazzi, El Paso Spur and Maestro Restaurant to name but a few.
Over the years that followed, Swart progressed through the ranks within the hospitality industry, and in 2016, having earned his stripes, joined Montecasino as Senior Assistant Food and Beverage Manager.
Today, he heads up a team of 270 people as Food and Beverage Manager at Gold Reef City and is excited to enhance the dining experience offered at the property’s Vigour & Verve restaurant.