I am a forward-thinking professional offering more than 20 years of experience working in fast-paced food and beverage outlets. Skilled at staying focused and productive in high-stress situations and maintaining calmness in busy times. Excellent and proven inventory and supply chain skills.
Seeking to transition into new field, I have developed skills in high-paced and group restaurant environments and demonstrates strengths in team collaboration, adaptability, problem-solving, focusing on achieving operational goals and time management. Eager to apply these transferable skills to contribute effectively to your company dynamic.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
CHEF & EVENT PLANNER
True Origin Food Co.
Klerksdorp
02.2022 - 12.2024
Overseeing business operations, inventory control, and customer service.
Optimized food ordering and preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
Expanded catering services through strategic marketing efforts, increasing event bookings and revenue streams.
Ensured high food quality and customer satisfaction through tailored meal preparation.
Designed seasonal menus showcasing fresh local ingredients, supporting sustainable agriculture practices within the community.
Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
Bespoke menu and unique event planning.
Enhanced inventory accuracy by conducting thorough stock audits and addressing discrepancies promptly.
Maintained detailed records of all stock movements, providing valuable data for decision-making purposes.
Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
Performed face-to-face meetings to finalize contracts for services and event details.
Managed event logistics and operations.
Developed strong relationships with clients, fostering trust and rapport for ongoing business opportunities.
Managed budgets effectively, monitoring expenses closely to ensure events were delivered within financial constraints.
GENERAL FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER
Joburg City Theatres - Joburg Zoo
03.2019 - 08.2022
Managed budgets, forecasting sales, controlling costs, and achieving profitability targets.
Streamlined order fulfillment process, ensuring timely delivery of products to customers.
Improved inventory accuracy by implementing and conducting regular stock audits.
Optimized reorder points and safety stock levels based on lead times, demand variability, and desired service levels.
Coordinated with cross-functional teams during new product launches to ensure adequate stock was available at launch time.
Managed relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts for favorable pricing and delivery terms.
Balancing of cash registers, reconciling transactions, and establishment's expenditure.
Reviewed pricing and ordered food and beverage ingredients, appliances, and supplies.
Event and functions management.
Staff brigade management.
Orchestrated positive customer experiences by overseeing every area of food and beverage operations.
Set schedules for staff brigade by planning and designating shifts and hours.
Oversaw front of house and back of house personnel to maintain adequate staffing and minimize overtime.
Conducted regular performance evaluations of team members to identify areas for improvement or recognition of exceptional work contributions.
Increased revenue through effective upselling techniques and promotional strategies.
Implemented safety protocols for proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
Negotiated vendor contracts to secure the best prices on quality ingredients while minimizing supply chain disruptions.
Created detailed reports on weekly, monthly and annual expenses and revenues, using Pilot and GAAP software.
Supervised catering services both on-site at restaurant locations as well as off-site engagements for various clients.
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Ardmore Hospitality Peacanwood Estate
01.2017 - 02.2019
Building the logic for a streamline kitchen design
Educational institutions and online classroom food nutrition training
Elevated restaurant reputation by consistently delivering exceptional culinary experiences and maintaining high-quality standards.
Enhanced customer satisfaction with innovative menu creation, seasonal dish updates, and attention to dietary restrictions.
Streamlined all kitchens operations for increased efficiency and reduced waste through effective menu planning and staff training.
Overhauled underperforming restaurants by identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted strategies to boost sales and guest satisfaction.
Expanded catering services to increase overall business revenue while maintaining excellent service levels during peak dining hours.
Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
Developed and remained accountable for safety, quality, consistency and adherence to standards.
Optimized reorder points and safety stock levels based on lead times, demand variability, and desired service levels.
Coordinated with cross-functional teams during new product launches to ensure adequate stock was available at launch time.
Managed relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts for favorable pricing and delivery terms.
Participated in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing overall supply chain performance within the organization.
Conducted staff training sessions on proper inventory handling procedures, resulting in improved accuracy and reduced errors.
Developed and implemented strategies for effective demand forecasting and inventory management.
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Misty Hills Hotel
01.2013 - 12.2016
Enhanced inventory accuracy by conducting thorough stock audits and addressing discrepancies promptly.
Maintained detailed records of all stock movements, providing valuable data for decision-making purposes.
Coordinated with quality assurance team to ensure that incoming products met established quality standards, preventing potential stock issues related to defective items.
Established positive relationships with local suppliers to secure fresh produce and support the community economy.
Placed food orders with suppliers on weekly basis, taking into account kitchen budget and expected demands.
Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
Continuously updated knowledge of industry trends and incorporated innovative concepts into menu offerings, keeping clients engaged over time.
Enhanced customer satisfaction by creating innovative and high-quality dishes tailored to diverse dietary preferences.
Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective sourcing of high-quality ingredients, reducing overall expenses without compromising on quality.
Consistently met budgetary goals by carefully monitoring expenses and adjusting menu pricing as needed.
Successfully balanced diverse responsibilities including menu design, staff training, budget management, and event coordination.
Spearheaded catering efforts for special events, showcasing culinary expertise and generating additional revenue streams.
Managed staffing schedules, minimizing labor costs while maintaining optimal kitchen performance during peak hours.
Implemented innovative event themes and designs to create memorable experiences for attendees.
Streamlined event planning processes by implementing efficient project management strategies.
RESTAURANT & EVENTS MANAGER
Rockets Restaurant Group - Fuel 90 Grayston Drive
01.2010 - 12.2012
Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
Increased client satisfaction by delivering tailored events that met their unique objectives and preferences.
Selected and ordered refreshments, decor and event materials.
Correctly calculated inventory and ordered appropriate supplies.
Met, greeted, and encouraged feedback from customers and used feedback to implement positive changes within restaurant.
Tracked daily sales transactions and invoices for accurate and updated financial reporting.
Monitored inventory of supplies and purchased orders to maintain adequate stock levels.
Carefully interviewed, selected, trained, and supervised staff.
Quickly identified problem situations and skillfully resolved incidents to satisfaction of involved parties.
Developed, implemented, and managed business plans to promote profitable food and beverage sales.
Established strong relationships with local suppliers to secure competitive pricing on quality ingredients without sacrificing taste or presentation.
Implemented cost-saving measures through streamlined processes, efficient scheduling, and strategic vendor negotiations.
Reconciled cash and credit card transactions to maintain accurate records.
Conducted market research to identify trends and opportunities for menu development, keeping restaurant competitive.
Implemented cost-saving strategies, reducing waste through meticulous inventory management.
Increased restaurant revenue by optimizing table turnover rates and enhancing menu offerings.
GROUP EXECUTIVE CHEF
Joburg City Theatres
01.2005 - 12.2009
Managing and streamlining protocols and procedures striving toward excellent efficiency for all theatre restaurants (Joburg theatre, Roodepoort theatre & Soweto theatre)
Streamlined kitchen operations for increased efficiency and reduced waste through effective menu planning and staff training.
Enhanced inventory accuracy by conducting thorough stock audits and addressing discrepancies promptly.
Maintained detailed records of all stock movements, providing valuable data for decision-making purposes.
Coordinated with quality assurance team to ensure that incoming products met established quality standards, preventing potential stock issues related to defective items.
Increased overall portfolio returns by analyzing market trends and executing strategic trades.
Utilized data-driven insights to analyze the performance of various menu items, enabling informed decisions on which dishes to emphasize or retire from future offerings.
Collaborated with chefs and kitchen staff to ensure timely execution of high-quality dishes for each event.
Led team training sessions to educate staff on proper food handling, safety procedures, and presentation techniques.
Implemented ongoing menu evaluations, adjusting offerings based on feedback from clients and industry trends.
Developed strong relationships with vendors, ensuring access to fresh, high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
Developed optimal replenishment strategies based on historical sales trends and anticipated demand fluctuations due to seasonal factors or promotional activities.
Managed the implementation of a new inventory management system, resulting in more accurate tracking and forecasting capabilities.
Maintained awareness of industry best practices in stock control and inventory management, incorporating relevant ideas into company procedures for continuous improvement efforts.
Implemented cost-saving measures in inventory management, reducing food waste without compromising quality or guest experience.
Monitored industry trends to stay ahead of competitors by incorporating innovative ideas into culinary offerings and restaurant operations.
Led a diverse team of chefs across multiple restaurant locations, fostering collaboration and consistent quality standards throughout the group.
Successfully launched new restaurants from concept development to opening day execution, overseeing all aspects of kitchen setup and staff recruitment.
Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
TRAINING SPECIALIST
Yum Restaurant International
01.2003 - 01.2004
Established a mentorship program to facilitate knowledge sharing between experienced employees and new hires, enhancing overall team performance.
Collaborated with department managers to identify skill gaps and develop targeted training interventions.
Increased employee retention through engaging and relevant training sessions tailored to individual needs.
Supported the professional development of fellow trainers by providing constructive feedback and sharing insights on effective teaching methodologies.
Teaching and facilitating training handbooks, computer tutorials and reference materials.
Coached employees on various topics including conflict resolution, goal setting, and career planning to foster individual growth within the company.
Evaluated training effectiveness using feedback surveys and assessments, making continuous improvements as needed.
Led workshops on various topics such as leadership development, communication skills, and time management, improving employee competencies across the organization.
Documented participation and evaluated learning for each participant.
Developed customized training materials including presentations, job aids, and facilitator guides for effective knowledge transfer.
Boosted overall workplace efficiency by introducing cross-training initiatives that increased employees'' versatility in performing various tasks.
Enhanced employee performance by developing and implementing comprehensive training programs.
Conducted orientation sessions to assess skill levels and areas of strength and weakness.
Trained and mentored new personnel hired to fulfill various roles.
Assisted in analyzing and assessing training and development needs for organizations, departments and individuals.
Education
Professional Kitchen Management - Hotel, Motel, And Restaurant Management
International Hotel School
Johannesburg, South Africa
01.2000 - 12.2003
High School Diploma -
Orkney High School
Orkney, South Africa
01.1995 - 11.1999
Skills
Stock & Purchasing Management
References
Susan Harnett - Executive Head
Cell: 067 400 2219
Email:
Kurt Quadflieg - General Manager
Cell: 083 677 1688
Email:
Timeline
CHEF & EVENT PLANNER
True Origin Food Co.
02.2022 - 12.2024
GENERAL FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER
Joburg City Theatres - Joburg Zoo
03.2019 - 08.2022
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Ardmore Hospitality Peacanwood Estate
01.2017 - 02.2019
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Misty Hills Hotel
01.2013 - 12.2016
RESTAURANT & EVENTS MANAGER
Rockets Restaurant Group - Fuel 90 Grayston Drive
01.2010 - 12.2012
GROUP EXECUTIVE CHEF
Joburg City Theatres
01.2005 - 12.2009
TRAINING SPECIALIST
Yum Restaurant International
01.2003 - 01.2004
Professional Kitchen Management - Hotel, Motel, And Restaurant Management
International Hotel School
01.2000 - 12.2003
High School Diploma -
Orkney High School
01.1995 - 11.1999
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