Kayla Huggins
Kerikeri
Summary
Dynamic chef with a proven track record at adept at multitasking and maintaining a bubble and outgoing demeanor. Excelled in creating authentic, memorable dishes, significantly enhancing customer satisfaction. Skilled in both culinary techniques and effective communication, trained staff, and optimized kitchen operations, showcasing diligence and a caring approach.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Chef
Homestead Tavern
Kerikeri
05.2019 - 06.2020
- Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
- Prepared meals from scratch using authentic, popular recipes to generate repeat business.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Responded to dietary concerns and food allergies, creating dishes to meet customer needs and palates.
- Interacted with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels.
- Cooked memorable dishes that brought new customers into establishment.
Chef De Partie
The Pear Tree Restaurant
Kerikeri
09.2017 - 08.2019
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Rotated stock to use items before expiration date.
- Plated meals paying special attention to garnishes and overall presentation.
- Operated all kitchen equipment safely to prevent injuries.
- Complied with portion and serving sizes as per restaurant standards.
- Prepared items for roasting, sautéing, frying and baking.
- Mentored kitchen staff to prepare each for demanding roles.
- Collaborated with vendors and suppliers to obtain quality recipe ingredients while adhering to company budgets.
- Obtained fresh, local ingredients to improve dish flavors and limit grocery costs.
Chef Assistant
RSA Kerikeri
Kerikeri
11.2014 - 05.2017
- Managed food preparation activities, such as cutting ingredients to size and preparing sauces and garnishes.
- Prepared and cooked quality meals in high-volume, fast-paced service environments.
- Wrapped, dated, and stored food in refrigerators under standardized temperature for future uses.
- Maintained cleanliness and order of kitchen prep areas and appliances as well as convenient organization of ingredients.
Education
Level 4 In Culinary - Chef Training
Culinary Institute of New Zealand
Kerikeri 09.2017
Skills
Bubble and outgoing
Good communication
Caring and humble
Multitasker
Diligence
Timeline
Chef
Homestead Tavern
05.2019 - 06.2020
Chef De Partie
The Pear Tree Restaurant
09.2017 - 08.2019
Chef Assistant
RSA Kerikeri
11.2014 - 05.2017
Level 4 In Culinary - Chef Training
Culinary Institute of New Zealand