Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Additional Information
Timeline
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Thabo Kapudi Choma

Johannesburg

Summary

Proven leader and innovative Developer Chef at CHALMAR BEEF, adept in recipe development and enhancing dining experiences through advanced cooking techniques and effective team mentoring. Excelled in kitchen management and food safety, achieving significant waste reduction. Demonstrated exceptional verbal communication, fostering a collaborative environment. Forward-thinking professional offering more than 3 years of experience working in fast-paced kitchens. Skilled at staying focused and productive in high-stress situations and maintaining calmness in busy times. Excellent and proven in many skills.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Cook Shift Leader

Mina Group LLC
08.2023 - 08.2024

Responsible for leading the lunch shift, key prep areas on dishes, time management on dishes and close attention on execution of dishes,

Stations responsible for is grill and saute.

  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, adhering to health department standards for safety and sanitation.
  • Demonstrated exceptional multitasking abilities by overseeing multiple cooking stations simultaneously while maintaining quality control standards.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Successfully managed inventory and reduced waste by carefully monitoring food usage and rotating stock.

J1 CULINARY EXTERN (ORNOS)

Mina Group LLC
08.2023 - 04.2024
  • Maintained a clean and sanitary kitchen environment, adhering to health department regulations and guidelines.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by creating visually appealing and delicious plates.
  • Reduced food waste through proper inventory management and portion control.
  • Adapted quickly to menu changes and daily specials while maintaining consistency in dish preparation.
  • Ensured proper food storage practices were followed for reduced spoilage risks and optimal freshness levels.
  • Implemented creative culinary techniques for improved menu variety and dining experiences.
  • Assisted with the training of new kitchen staff, ensuring consistency in quality and presentation of dishes.
  • Proactively addressed dietary restrictions or special requests from guests while maintaining dish integrity.
  • Maintained a positive attitude and strong work ethic, resulting in increased opportunities for professional growth within the restaurant.
  • Received praise from executive chefs for outstanding teamwork skills during large events or banquets.
  • Managed time effectively under high-pressure situations to maintain prompt service for diners.
  • Developed strong knife skills for precise cuts and efficient prep work tasks on a wide range of ingredients.
  • Showcased attention to detail in intricate garnishes and plate decorations for enhanced visual appeal.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple orders simultaneously without compromising quality or timeliness.
  • Contributed to a cohesive team atmosphere by providing support to fellow staff members when needed.
  • Cleaned kitchen counters, refrigerators, and freezers.
  • Streamlined prep work processes to maximize efficiency during peak hours.
  • Observed head chefs and how each prepared different specialties to gain knowledge in cooking techniques.
  • Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines while preparing and serving food.

Data Analyst

TOGA LABORATORIES
02.2022 - 08.2022
  • Produced monthly reports using advanced Excel spreadsheet functions.
  • Utilized data visualization tools to effectively communicate business insights.
  • Created various Excel documents to assist with pulling metrics data and presenting information to stakeholders for concise explanations of best placement for needed resources.
  • Improved decision-making processes with accurate data analysis and visualization techniques.
  • Used statistical methods to analyze data and generate useful business reports.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure data integrity and accuracy, resulting in better-informed decisions.
  • Enhanced business efficiency by identifying trends and patterns in complex datasets.
  • Managed large-scale databases to ensure timely access to critical information for key stakeholders.

DEVELOPER CHEF

CHALMAR BEEF
01.2020 - 06.2020
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of new features.
  • Adapted quickly to new technologies and programming languages, enhancing overall team productivity.
  • Debugged complex software issues, leading to a more stable product release.
  • Continuously updated skills through training courses, workshops, and self-study—staying current on industry trends and emerging technologies.
  • Worked closely with clients to gather requirements and translate them into technical specifications for implementation.
  • Mentored junior developers, fostering a collaborative learning environment and supporting professional growth.
  • Designed intuitive user interfaces, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and engagement.

COOK

Southern Sun
01.2019 - 07.2019
  • Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
  • Maintained a clean and sanitary workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Prepared meals efficiently under time constraints for timely service during peak hours.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills, managing multiple orders simultaneously without sacrificing quality or presentation.
  • Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Managed time by organizing and prioritizing kitchen duties to prepare and serve food quickly.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - HEAD CHEF

EUROINNOVA BUSINESS SCHOOL
SPAIN,
08.2024

Food Handler - Hospitality

Serenade National Resturaunt Association
California
06.2023

Bachelor of Arts - Chef Training

CAPSICUM CULINARY SCHOOL
JOHANNESBURG, SA
07.2018

BBA - Management Information Systems

ROSEBANK COLLEGE
PRETORIA, SA
01.2018

Skills

  • Cooking techniques
  • Food Storage
  • Meal Preparation
  • Knife Skills
  • Recipe creation
  • Kitchen Management
  • Nutrition knowledge
  • Menu Planning
  • Sanitation Procedures
  • Cost Control
  • Food presentation
  • Sauce making
  • Waste Reduction
  • International Cuisine
  • Plating techniques
  • Food Safety
  • Cleaning and sanitation
  • Inventory Replenishment
  • Special Events
  • Grilling Techniques
  • Sanitation Standards
  • Training and mentoring
  • Food allergy understanding
  • Food spoilage prevention
  • Staff Training
  • Kitchen equipment operation and maintenance
  • Recipe Development
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Food plating and presentation
  • Recipes and menu planning
  • ServSafe Certification
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Microsoft 365 knowledge

Additional Information

References contact details


Chef Daniela Vergara (San Francisco)

+1 (374) 351 1808

(Ornos/ Bungalow)


Chef Jack Bennett

+1 (415) 909 0156

(International Smoke)


Chef Chris Iaccarino

+1 (707) 315 7307

(Ornos/ International smoke)


Timeline

Cook Shift Leader

Mina Group LLC
08.2023 - 08.2024

J1 CULINARY EXTERN (ORNOS)

Mina Group LLC
08.2023 - 04.2024

Data Analyst

TOGA LABORATORIES
02.2022 - 08.2022

DEVELOPER CHEF

CHALMAR BEEF
01.2020 - 06.2020

COOK

Southern Sun
01.2019 - 07.2019

Bachelor of Arts - HEAD CHEF

EUROINNOVA BUSINESS SCHOOL

Food Handler - Hospitality

Serenade National Resturaunt Association

Bachelor of Arts - Chef Training

CAPSICUM CULINARY SCHOOL

BBA - Management Information Systems

ROSEBANK COLLEGE
Thabo Kapudi Choma