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

Thabo Kapudi Choma

Cape Town

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.

Motivated Sous Chef polished in keeping kitchen staff on task and handling high-volume work. Knowledgeable about sourcing ingredients, maintaining budgets and maximizing customer satisfaction. Works with management to analyze food costs and forecast business trends to meet company goals.

Quality-driven Sous Chef maintains complete understanding of kitchen operations, equipment and sanitation. Demonstrates organizational skills, budgeting experience and full knowledge of financial reports. Hires, trains and manages staff to provide employees with adequate guidance and resources to accomplish established objectives.

Versatile Chef with vast experience preparing dishes to impress diners. Trains and develops chefs to company standards. Anticipates ingredient needs and arranges re-stock to facilitate productive kitchen flow and uphold business standards.

Motivated professional dedicated to sourcing high-quality ingredients from local sources to drive farm-to-table menus. Proactive and adaptable team leader passionate about sustainable cuisine. Talented at creating exciting and innovative menus based on in-season ingredients.

Innovative Sous Chef with experience in diverse culinary techniques and management of kitchen staff. Strong background in menu development, food preparation, and cost control. Demonstrated ability to maintain high quality standards while increasing efficiency in fast-paced environments. Consistently achieve customer satisfaction through creative culinary skill set and effective communication abilities.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Sous Chef

Faircape group
Cape Town
04.2025 - Current
  • Directed kitchen staff in day-to-day operations including food production, sanitation, safety practices, and personnel management.
  • Ensured food preparation and presentation met high standards of quality and sanitation.
  • Assisted in menu development and recipe testing.
  • Monitored inventory levels to ensure adequate supplies on hand.
  • Analyzed customer feedback to identify areas of improvement in service or product quality.
  • Created a positive work environment by encouraging teamwork among staff members.
  • Coordinated ordering, receiving, storage, and distribution of food items.
  • Performed weekly inspections of all equipment for safety compliance.
  • Implemented strategies to reduce waste and increase efficiency throughout the kitchen.
  • Supervised cooks and other kitchen personnel during meal services.
  • Collaborated with Executive Chef to create innovative dishes for special events.
  • Enforced portion control guidelines to minimize costs associated with overproduction.
  • Complied with all health department regulations regarding proper food handling methods.
  • Trained new hires in proper cooking techniques and recipes.
  • Adjusted recipes as needed to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies.
  • Conducted regular performance reviews with line cooks while providing constructive feedback where necessary.
  • Contributed to the successful execution of catered events from start to finish.
  • Supervised kitchen food preparation in demanding, high-volume environments.
  • Plated food according to restaurant artistic guidelines to promote attractive presentation.
  • Helped staff adhere to tough restaurant requirements through practical discipline and motivation.
  • Improved performance of team members resulting in high-quality meals produced daily.
  • Monitored food products, driving quality, freshness and integrity.
  • Directed staff in restaurant kitchen and field to maintain department objectives, standards, guidelines and budget.
  • Conducted frequent line checks to keep food at proper temperatures in holding zones.
  • Liaised closely with kitchen and front-of-house personnel.
  • Oversaw kitchen employee scheduling to meet coverage needs and avoid wasted labor.

Executive Chef

Searles restaurant
George
10.2024 - 01.2025
  • Analyzed customer feedback data to improve existing recipes or create new ones.
  • Worked closely with purchasing manager to control food costs while maintaining product quality standards.
  • Monitored inventory levels of all food items to ensure adequate supplies are available at all times.
  • Designed innovative dishes that incorporated global flavors into traditional cuisine.
  • Collaborated with other directors on operational activities, including fundraising campaigns, staff management, and program development.
  • Performed staff management, task allocation, and materials coordination duties to surpass business goals.
  • Oversaw day-to-day operations of the business, including staff management and scheduling.
  • Managed daily operations of the travel agency including staff management and budgeting.
  • Analyzed current trends in the industry related to staff management practices.
  • Developed and implemented a comprehensive program for the Performing Arts Department including budgeting, scheduling, and staff management.
  • Supervised daily operations of club, including customer service and staff management.
  • Operated equipment and machinery according to safety guidelines.
  • Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
  • Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.

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
  • Menu development
  • Food safety
  • Inventory management
  • Project management
  • Team leadership
  • Customer service
  • Culinary techniques
  • Recipe testing
  • Employee training
  • Performance improvement
  • Butchery skills
  • Plating
  • Knife skills
  • Staff training
  • Kitchen equipment operation
  • Menu memorization
  • Dish preparation
  • Catering background
  • Menu pricing
  • Pastry skills
  • Mentoring and coaching
  • Menu planning
  • Kitchen organization
  • Portion control
  • Foodservice
  • Food preparation supervision
  • Kitchen leadership
  • Special diets
  • Ingredient knowledge
  • Kitchen management
  • Allergen awareness
  • Culinary trends
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Seafood preparation
  • Pasta making
  • Bread baking
  • Detail-oriented
  • Ordering and requisitions
  • Equipment usage
  • Food preparation
  • Cost control
  • Safety management
  • Sanitation procedures
  • Employee scheduling
  • Staff motivation
  • Wine expertise
  • Workflow optimization
  • Positive and professional
  • Safe food handling
  • Compliance
  • Order delivery practices
  • Line inspections
  • Sauce preparation
  • Station oversight
  • Supervising food prep
  • Sales planning

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)

Languages

English
Proficient
C2
Spanish
Intermediate
B1
Afrikaans
Advanced
C1

Timeline

Sous Chef

Faircape group
04.2025 - Current

Executive Chef

Searles restaurant
10.2024 - 01.2025

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