Zia Dercksen
Chef
Stellenbosch
Summary
Determined Commis Chef promoting great stamina, passion and versatility. Flexible individual skilled working as part of busy team and interested in helping with different tasks. Over 1 years of experience in busy, high-end restaurant environments.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Chef
Bullseye Kitchen
03.2025 - 03.2025
- Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Planned and directed high-volume food preparation in fast-paced environment.
- Maintained open lines of communication with front-of-house management teams to address any potential issues before they escalated into larger problems affecting overall guest satisfaction levels.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, resulting in reduced food waste and cost savings for the establishment.
- Collaborated with executive chef to develop innovative menu items, leading to increased guest return rates and positive reviews.
Waiter
Hero Events
11.2024 - 02.2025
- Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing attentive service and anticipating guest needs.
- Maintained a clean and organized dining area, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere for guests.
Commis Chef
Coopmanshuijs Hotel and Spa
08.2023 - 07.2024
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Prepped daily menu items to quickly deliver upon request.
- Developed strong multitasking abilities by managing multiple cooking stations during peak hours, ensuring consistent quality output.
- Assisted other chefs with ingredients preparation in support of recipes designed by head chef.
- Observed different kitchen chefs' preparation of sauces, breads, and other items to gain knowledge in diverse cooking and baking techniques.
Salesperson
The Mushroom Box
10.2022 - 05.2023
- Worked to build relationships with customers and built potential for additional sales.
- Boosted sales by consistently engaging with customers and addressing their needs effectively.
- Contributed to event marketing, sales and brand promotion.
Chef Trainee
Post N Pepper
12.2022 - 02.2023
- Maintained safety standards by adhering to proper food handling procedures and cleanliness guidelines.
- Developed expertise in multiple stations within the kitchen, increasing versatility as a chef trainee and supporting team cohesion during busy shifts.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by creating visually appealing and delicious dishes.
- Streamlined plating process with proper portion control, reducing food waste and increasing profits.
Chef Trainee
The Wine Glass
06.2022 - 09.2022
- Maintained safety standards by adhering to proper food handling procedures and cleanliness guidelines.
- Learned various cooking techniques for diverse cuisines, expanding the restaurant''s menu offerings.
- Completed daily mise en place tasks efficiently, allowing for smooth service during meal periods.
- Supported fellow team members during high-volume periods, ensuring timely completion of orders and satisfied guests.
Education
NQF Lvl 5 - Chef
Chef's Training And Innovation Academy
Stellenbosch 03.2022 - 02.2025
High School Diploma -
Melkbosstrand High School
Melkbosstrand, South Africa 01.2021 - 01.2021
Skills
Food preparation
Food safety
Cost control
Menu memorization
Catering background
Calm demeanor
Adaptability and flexibility
Multitasking
Customer service
Attention to detail
Timeline
Chef
Bullseye Kitchen
03.2025 - 03.2025
Waiter
Hero Events
11.2024 - 02.2025
Commis Chef
Coopmanshuijs Hotel and Spa
08.2023 - 07.2024
Chef Trainee
Post N Pepper
12.2022 - 02.2023
Salesperson
The Mushroom Box
10.2022 - 05.2023
Chef Trainee
The Wine Glass
06.2022 - 09.2022
NQF Lvl 5 - Chef
Chef's Training And Innovation Academy
03.2022 - 02.2025
High School Diploma -
Melkbosstrand High School
01.2021 - 01.2021
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