Dynamic culinary leader with 35 years in the food industry, including a successful tenure at Gourmet Fine Catering. Expert in diverse cuisines and adept at managing costs, achieving 26% food cost efficiency. Proven ability to train teams and foster vendor relationships, ensuring exceptional quality and service in high-pressure environments.
Owner: Developed and implemented various globally inspired instant sauces for home cooks
Responsible for all fabrication, finishing, and packaging of products.
Directed and trained an excellent culinary team of up to 25 members for an establishment of over $1 million in food sales annually
Personally handled all ordering, scheduling, inventory, and costing
Maintained a continually hands-on presence in the kitchen, ensuring food quality, food safety, and teamwork.
Partnered with sales team to create custom menus for a wide range of clients
Established strong relationships with vendors to ensure the best possible product and pricing.
Worked diligently with ownership and office staff to provide correct pricing for over 1000 menu items
Instrumental in paring down menu to maximize efficiency and profits
Cooperated with service managers to problem solve and correct any service/kitchen issues before they arose.
Instrumental in keeping food and labor costs at 26% and 20% respectively.
Effectively oversaw a busy catering kitchen, establishing new and valuable relationships with kitchen staff, vendors, and salespersons.
Trained culinary team in new techniques while maintaining the integrity of the previous chefs' menu items
Responsible for all purchasing, scheduling, and menu costing.
Established new menu items and wedding packages
Successfully managed, ordered, and prepared outstanding cuisine for a multitude of kosher events
Demonstrated continuous commitment to reducing food and labor costs.
Developed menus and trained staff for many large events and galas for up to 1500 people.
Continual presence in the food and beverage industry for 35 years
Well versed in a variety of cuisines
Experienced with vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, kosher, and dietary restrictions ServeSafe certified