Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience as Head Chef at Behind the Door on 4 Upokongaroa, excelling in kitchen organization and team management. Proven track record in developing seasonal menus and enhancing food presentation, while fostering a collaborative environment that boosts staff performance and customer satisfaction.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Chef De Partie
Powderhorn Chateau Ohakune
Ohakune
04.2023 - Current
Assisted in daily kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food preparation and presentation.
Collaborated with head chef to develop innovative menu items, enhancing guest satisfaction.
Trained junior kitchen staff on food safety protocols and cooking techniques, fostering skill development.
Monitored inventory levels, reducing waste through efficient stock management practices.
Implemented new cooking methods, improving dish consistency and quality across all service times.
Supervised kitchen staff during peak hours, maintaining workflow and minimizing delays in service.
Conducted regular quality checks on dishes served, ensuring adherence to restaurant standards and guest expectations.
Created seasonal specials based on local produce availability, attracting repeat customers and increasing sales.
Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
Chef
The Blind Finch Ohakune
Ohakune, MWT
05.2022 - 11.2023
Utilized proper cleaning techniques to sanitize counters and utensils used in preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
Responded to dietary concerns and food allergies, creating dishes to meet customer needs and palates.
Continually improved kitchen safety by enforcing strict hygiene protocols and staff training on equipment usage.
Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality culinary creations.
Collaborated effectively with front-of-house team for seamless dining experience and positive customer feedback.
Head Chef
Behind the Door on 4 Upokongaroa
Upokongaroa
08.2019 - 10.2021
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.
Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
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.
Monitored line processes to maintain consistency in quality, quantity, and presentation.
Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
Fostered a positive working environment by promoting teamwork and open communication among all kitchen staff members.
Arranged for kitchen equipment maintenance and repair when needed.
Chef
Carolones Boat Shed Whanganui
Whanganui, MWT
03.2017 - 10.2018
Crafted seasonal menus utilizing local ingredients to enhance culinary offerings.
Trained kitchen staff on food safety and preparation techniques to ensure compliance.
Coordinated kitchen operations during peak service hours, optimizing workflow efficiency.
Developed and implemented new recipes, enhancing customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Managed inventory levels and ordering processes to minimize waste and reduce costs.
Collaborated with front-of-house staff to create a seamless dining experience for guests.
Oversaw daily kitchen activities, ensuring high standards of food quality and presentation.
Mentored junior chefs, fostering skill development and teamwork within the kitchen environment.
Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
Checked freezer and refrigerator prior to each shift to verify correct temperatures.
Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
Sous Chef
The Grand Hotel Whanganui
Whanganui, MWT
03.2013 - 06.2016
Assisted in daily kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food preparation and presentation.
Collaborated with head chef to develop innovative menu items, enhancing guest satisfaction.
Trained junior kitchen staff on food safety protocols and cooking techniques, fostering skill development.
Monitored inventory levels, reducing waste through efficient stock management practices.
Implemented new cooking methods, improving dish consistency and quality across all service times.
Supervised kitchen staff during peak hours, maintaining workflow and minimizing delays in service.
Conducted regular quality checks on dishes served, ensuring adherence to restaurant standards and guest expectations.
Created seasonal specials based on local produce availability, attracting repeat customers and increasing sales.
Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
Chef
Whanganui Cosmopolitan Club
Whangarei, NTL
05.2014 - 09.2015
Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen and food storage areas.
Collaborated with kitchen staff to create seasonal menus reflecting local cuisine.
Assisted in training new kitchen staff on food preparation techniques and safety protocols.
Implemented efficient cooking methods to enhance meal preparation speed and quality.
Developed relationships with local suppliers to secure high-quality produce and seafood.