Michael Talake
Auckland
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with a proven track record at Kaffeeine Eatery, where I developed seasonal menus and streamlined food preparation processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste. Skilled in food safety and team leadership, I excel in fostering collaboration and delivering exceptional dining experiences.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Cook's Assistant
Te Mana Health Care.
Birkdale
04.2023 - Current
- Facilitated meal preparation in strict adherence to health and safety guidelines.
- Oversaw cleanliness and organization of kitchen equipment and supplies.
- Assisted head cook in managing daily food service operations and menu planning.
- Executed ingredient preparation by washing, cutting, and measuring in accordance with established recipes.
Chefc
Kaffeeine Eatery
Albany.,Northshore Auckland.
01.2019 - 04.2023
- Developed and executed seasonal menus reflecting local ingredients and culinary trends.
- Supervised kitchen staff, ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation standards.
- Streamlined food preparation processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste.
- Trained new team members in cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Collaborated with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients at optimal costs.
- Implemented inventory management practices, minimizing food spoilage and losses.
- Designed special event catering menus tailored to client preferences and dietary needs.
- Led team meetings to discuss menu development, service improvements, and staff performance feedback.
- Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
- Checked freezer and refrigerator prior to each shift to verify correct temperatures.
Chef
Devon on the Wharf
Devonport, AUK
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Developed and executed diverse menu offerings to enhance customer satisfaction and dining experience.
- Trained and mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering skill development and teamwork.
- Oversaw kitchen operations to ensure adherence to food safety standards and quality control.
- Collaborated with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients, optimizing cost management.
- Led special events catering, coordinating logistics and menu design to exceed client expectations.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
- Utilized proper cleaning techniques to sanitize counters and utensils used in preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
Education
High School Diploma -
Fiji Institute of Technology
Hotel And Catering School Skills
Cleaning and sanitizing
Attention to detail
Food preparation
Ingredient preparation
Safe food handling
Customer service
Sweeping and mopping
Food storage
Problem-solving
Workplace safety
Flexible and adaptable
Creative thinking
Kitchen equipment operation
Recipe adherence
Vegetable and fruit preparation
Supply restocking
Kitchen station restocking
Chopping vegetables
Team collaboration
Kitchen staff support
Food presentation
Food preservation and storage methods
Cooking techniques
Grilling
Work coordination
Sauce and soup cooking
Salad creation
Team contribution
Temperature monitoring
Relationship building
Team leadership
Preparation techniques
Food portioning and packaging
Safe handling
Dishwasher operation
Decision-making
Menu distribution
Food production
Timeline
Cook's Assistant
Te Mana Health Care.
04.2023 - Current
Chefc
Kaffeeine Eatery
01.2019 - 04.2023
Chef
Devon on the Wharf
01.2017 - 01.2019
High School Diploma -
Fiji Institute of Technology