Declan Murray
F&B strategy, revenue analytics, and event operations. Turning data into decisions and venues into experiences.
About
Building experiences,
solving problems,
and always learning.
I am an Economics and Hospitality graduate from the University of Utah who enjoys turning ideas into reality through a combination of analytical thinking, operational execution, and relationship building. My experiences have taken me from managing live events in Utah to studying International Hospitality and Tourism at the University of Barcelona, where I collaborated with industry professionals from around the world. Whether evaluating business performance, developing new concepts, or coordinating complex operations, I am motivated by opportunities to learn, improve, and create memorable experiences.
F&B Strategy
P&L analysis, labor forecasting, and outlet optimization across complex hotel properties.
Revenue Analytics
CoStar, STR, and custom financial models that drive data-backed decisions.
Event Operations
End-to-end event management: from artist booking to VIP service execution.
International
Studied hospitality in Barcelona and competed at the European Mise en Place Cup.
Experience
Where I've worked
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"Deep in the financials of one of Marriott's flagship properties: analyzing P&Ls, forecasting labor across outlets serving 6,500+ daily covers, and proposing data-driven improvements that actually got implemented."
- —Analyzed monthly P&L statements, labor forecasts, and inventory reports
- —Assisted in forecasting labor demand supporting 6,500+ daily covers
- —Proposed data-driven solutions across banquet, fine dining, and quick service outlets
"Turned raw event data into financial narratives. The venue redevelopment model with a 24-month payback period is a project I'm genuinely proud of."
- —Revenue and profitability analysis for 20+ events
- —Built financial models and ROI projections for a venue redevelopment proposal (24-month payback)
"Helped transform Sky's event program from scratch. Tripled average event revenue and brought in 30+ new artists while leading a 15-person VIP service team on live nights."
- —Tripled average event revenue from $13,000 to $39,000 (200% increase)
- —Led 15-member VIP service staff during live events
- —Brought in 30+ new artists and developed a new revenue stream
"Managed vendor relationships and evaluated 50+ project bids. A real foundation in operations and how to assess proposals critically."
- —Coordinated vendor relationships and evaluated 50+ facility project bids
"Spent a summer in the wilderness leading kids through camping trips and outdoor activities, building teamwork and environmental awareness one campsite at a time."
- —Led outdoor activities and overnight camping trips for over 75 children, promoting teamwork and leadership
- —Delivered engaging educational experiences in the wilderness, enhancing environmental awareness
Education
My academic background
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Notable Courses
Economics
- ECON 3100 – Labor Economics
- ECON 2040 – Political Economy: Race, Class & Gender
- ECON 5420 – China & Global Economy
- ECON 5440 – Sex, Drugs and War Economics
Hospitality & Operations
- PRT 3206 – Hospitality Law
- PRT 2204 – Front Office Procedures
- PRT 3205 – Hospitality Supervision
Quantitative & Analytical Skills
- ECON 3620 – Math for Economics
- ECON 3640 – Probability & Statistical Inference
- ECON 4650 – Principles of Econometrics
Notable Courses
Coursework
- Organization of Conferences and Events in Hospitality
- Hotel Analytics and Business Intelligence
- Revenue Management within Hotels
- Smart Tourism Management
- Leadership & Entrepreneurial Development in the Tourism Industry
- Artificial Intelligence Applications
Projects & Achievements
Things I'm proud of
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"Hotel dining has quietly become a liability: identical menus, underused spaces, and sustainability theater that guests see straight through. Our white paper makes the case for a fundamental reset, moving from consumption to connection, from static to strategic, and from green to generative."
- —2nd place among 30 hospitality schools from 17 countries
- —Presented to 120+ industry professionals in Barcelona
"Granary Live loses four months of revenue every winter while fixed costs run unchanged. I identified the opportunity, built the business case from scratch, and drove every phase: vendor outreach with Iron Sleek Outdoor Rink Systems, a financial model projecting ~$291K in first-season revenue off ~$42.5K capital, competitive benchmarking against Salt Lake City's existing rinks, and development of the ShredFest Rail Jam launch event. To bring the concept to life visually, I taught myself Blender to build a 3D model of the rail jam layout. The recommendation was approved and the activation is moving forward for Winter 2025-26."
- —Projected $291K first-season revenue from a 44×80 ft refrigerated rink + curling lanes
- —Self-initiated: identified the gap, framed the business case, led every phase of research and planning
- —ShredFest Rail Jam launch event with sponsor outreach to Salomon, Monster Energy, EVO, and others
"Competing at the continental level for nearly a decade built the discipline, resilience, and competitive drive I bring to every professional challenge. Top 20 North American ranking in Men's Snowboard-cross, competing in 40+ races worldwide."
- —Top 20 North America, Men's Snowboard-cross (2024)
- —40+ Continental Cup races worldwide
Skills
My tools & expertise
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Analytics & Data
Hospitality Tech
Tools
AI Assistant
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Let's talk.
Whether it's creating unforgettable guest experiences, looking for a new member for your team, planning an event, or even where to find the best après ski spot... I'm always excited to connect and meet with people who share similar passions.