Shehan Dissanayakage
Hamilton,WKO
Summary
Accomplished Head Chef with a proven track record at Joes Garage, enhancing kitchen efficiency and team performance. Expert in nutritional knowledge and menu development, significantly reducing food costs while maintaining high standards of food safety and presentation. Skilled in fostering strong vendor relationships and mentoring staff, contributing to a positive, results-driven work environment. High-performing Chef offering 10 years of restaurant experience in New Zealand. Excellent communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Talent for building streamlined, cohesive teams.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Chef
Ciao Ceylon Ltd
11.2022 - 07.2024
- Managed food costs effectively with careful menu planning, accurate portion control, and utilization of seasonal ingredients.
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- 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.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
Head Chef
Joes Garage
01.2020 - 11.2022
- Managed food costs effectively with careful menu planning, accurate portion control, and utilization of seasonal ingredients.
- 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.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Planned promotional menu additions based on seasonal pricing and product availability.
- 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.
Sous Chef
Lone Star
05.2017 - 01.2020
- Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Acted as head chef when required to maintain continuity of service and quality.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- 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.
Senior Sous Chef
Lone Star
01.2016 - 04.2017
- Increased customer satisfaction through consistent delivery of exceptional dishes, resulting in positive reviews.
- Assisted Executive Chef in cost analysis and budget management, optimizing profitability without compromising quality.
- Ensured compliance with all health department regulations while maintaining a well-organized workspace for optimal efficiency.
- Evaluated employee performance regularly providing guidance towards improvement as necessary.
Chef De Partie
Goode Brothers
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Provided support in all areas of the kitchen as needed, demonstrating versatility and adaptability under pressure.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple stations during busy service periods.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
3rd Commis Chef
Goode Brothers
06.2014 - 01.2015
- Maintained proper food storage practices, reducing waste and ensuring food safety standards were met.
- Continuously refined knife skills and other essential culinary techniques through hands-on training with senior chefs.
- Developed culinary skills through continuous learning under the guidance of experienced chefs, increasing overall kitchen proficiency.
- Ensured high-quality meal presentation by carefully plating dishes according to chef guidelines.
1st Commis Chef
Ruwan Caters
01.2013 - 05.2014
- Enhanced culinary skills by assisting in the preparation of various dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs.
- Contributed to a well-organized and efficient kitchen by maintaining clean workstations and following sanitation guidelines.
- Assisted other chefs with ingredients preparation in support of recipes designed by head chef.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
Education
Diploma - Professional Cookery
NZMA Auckland
Auckland, NZ06.2016
Skills
- Nutritional knowledge
- Food Safety
- Kitchen Management
- Team Management
- Menu development
- Menu Planning
- Food Safety Regulations
- Special Event Catering
- Food presentation
Timeline
Head Chef
Ciao Ceylon Ltd
11.2022 - 07.2024
Head Chef
Joes Garage
01.2020 - 11.2022
Sous Chef
Lone Star
05.2017 - 01.2020
Senior Sous Chef
Lone Star
01.2016 - 04.2017
Chef De Partie
Goode Brothers
01.2015 - 01.2016
3rd Commis Chef
Goode Brothers
06.2014 - 01.2015
1st Commis Chef
Ruwan Caters
01.2013 - 05.2014
Diploma - Professional Cookery
NZMA Auckland
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