Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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JOHN UTUMAPU

Gisborne,New Zealand

Summary

Experienced chef with a strong culinary background seeking a career transition into Food Verifier. Proven leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, combined with a passion for fostering positive workplace environments. Eager to leverage culinary expertise and adaptability to excel in managing employee relations and contribute to operational success.

Experienced with verification practices, ensuring accurate data and compliance. Utilizes analytical thinking and meticulous attention to detail to maintain high standards. Track record of improving operational efficiency and data integrity through effective verification processes.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work History

Head Chef

Flagship Eatery
10.2023 - Current
  • Managed food costs effectively with careful menu planning, accurate portion control, and utilization of seasonal ingredients.
  • Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
  • Developed strong vendor relationships to secure fresh, quality ingredients at competitive prices while supporting local businesses whenever possible.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
  • Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
  • Monitored line processes to maintain consistency in quality, quantity, and presentation.
  • Hired, managed, and trained kitchen staff.
  • Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
  • Ensured timely delivery of all orders during busy services by implementing efficient workstations and streamlined plating processes.
  • Fostered a positive working environment by promoting teamwork and open communication among all kitchen staff members.
  • Maintained strict adherence to health department regulations by enforcing proper food handling practices throughout the kitchen area.
  • Arranged for kitchen equipment maintenance and repair when needed.
  • Trained junior chefs in advanced culinary techniques and food safety procedures, helping them grow professionally within the industry.

Production Manager

Gear Meat Pie Company
12.2020 - 08.2023
  • Resolved issues quickly to maintain productivity goals.
  • Managed multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timely completion and meeting budget constraints.
  • Increased overall productivity by identifying bottlenecks in the production process and proposing effective solutions.
  • Directed quality assurance processes, maintaining alignment with industry standards and regulatory guidelines.

Sous Chef

The Works
09.2017 - 07.2020
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Played a key role in achieving positive health inspection results by maintaining strict compliance with all relevant guidelines and regulations throughout daily operations.
  • Mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative work environment that improved overall team performance.
  • Implemented proper cleaning procedures, ensuring a safe and sanitary kitchen workspace compliant with health department regulations.
  • Increased kitchen productivity by optimizing workflow processes and delegating tasks appropriately within the team.
  • Ensured consistent quality control of all dishes leaving the kitchen, resulting in a reputation for excellence among patrons.
  • 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.

Education

Associate of Applied Science - Level 3 Culinary Arts

Eastern Institute of Technology
Gisborne, New Zealand
11.2020

Skills

  • Strong attention to safe food handling procedures
  • Hospitality and service industry background
  • High Volume Production
  • Cost Control
  • High-Pressure Culinary Environments
  • Team management
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Leadership qualities
  • Process improvements

Timeline

Head Chef

Flagship Eatery
10.2023 - Current

Production Manager

Gear Meat Pie Company
12.2020 - 08.2023

Sous Chef

The Works
09.2017 - 07.2020

Associate of Applied Science - Level 3 Culinary Arts

Eastern Institute of Technology
JOHN UTUMAPU