Kathleen Howell
Hamilton
Summary
Dynamic culinary leader with extensive experience as Head Chef at Hamilton Gardens Cafe, excelling in recipe development and team leadership. Proven track record in enhancing food quality and presentation while ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Adept at fostering a collaborative environment that drives exceptional customer service and operational efficiency.
Dedicated and adaptable professional with a proactive attitude and the ability to learn quickly. Strong work ethic and effective communication skills. Eager to contribute to a dynamic team and support organizational goals.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Chef
Hamilton Gardens Cafe
Hamilton
03.2016 - 03.2025
- Monitored food production to guarantee quality standards were met.
- Performed regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning equipment, utensils, floors, walls, ensuring that all areas are kept clean and sanitary at all times.
- Monitored quality, presentation and quantities of plated food across line.
- Developed recipes and menus to meet consumer demand and align with culinary trends.
- Cleaned and sanitized kitchen equipment, utensils and work stations.
- Distributed food to service staff for prompt delivery to customers.
- Prepared variety of foods according to exact instructions and recipe specifications.
- Chopped and diced vegetables and fruits to stock fridge ahead of busy periods.
- Supervised food preparation staff to deliver high-quality results.
- Communicated effectively with wait staff regarding patron food allergies and dietary restrictions.
Manager of Operations
GAS WHATAWHATA
Hamilton
03.2020 - 07.2024
- Connected with clients and developed strategies to achieve sales and customer service goals.
- Guided employees on understanding and meeting changing customer needs and expectations.
- Led crisis management efforts, quickly resolving operational disruptions with minimal impact.
- Analyzed and controlled materials, supplies and equipment operational expenses.
- Monitored inventory levels and placed new orders for merchandise to keep supply well-stocked.
- Oversaw staff training and development programs, equipping employees with necessary skills and knowledge.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Improved morale and management communication by creating employee recognition and rewards practices.
- Prepared staff work schedules and assigned team members to specific duties.
- Formed and sustained strategic relationships with clients.
- Used excellent verbal skills to engage customers in conversation and effectively determine needs and requirements.
- Provided leadership and direction to staff members to ensure successful completion of projects on time and within budget.
- Established, maintained, and enforced organizational standards of performance, quality, and safety compliance.
Education
Bachelor of Hospitality And Tourism Management - Hospitality
Tricia's Academy of Learnjng
Hamilton 12-1999
Small Business Management - Business Management
Waikato Polytechnic
Hamilton 09-1998
High School Diploma -
Melville High School
Hamilton 11-1996
Skills
- Food safety
- Recipe development
- Inventory management
- Menu planning
- Team leadership
- Employee training
- Customer service
- Communication skills
- Time management
- Staff supervision
- Menu development
- Banquets and catering
- Food safety regulations
- Menu design
- Purchasing
- Purchasing management
- Team management
- Menu pricing
- Budget development
- Inventory rotation
- Cost reduction
- Staff training
- Culinary techniques
Timeline
Manager of Operations
GAS WHATAWHATA
03.2020 - 07.2024
Head Chef
Hamilton Gardens Cafe
03.2016 - 03.2025
Bachelor of Hospitality And Tourism Management - Hospitality
Tricia's Academy of Learnjng
Small Business Management - Business Management
Waikato Polytechnic
High School Diploma -
Melville High School