Reginald Donovan
Gardnerville,NV
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience at Caesars Entertainment, excelling in menu development and kitchen management. Proven track record in reducing food waste through efficient ordering and inventory practices. Skilled in HACCP planning and fostering team collaboration, ensuring high standards of sanitation and exceptional guest satisfaction.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Cook Manager
Lucky Beaver Bar & Grill
08.2019 - 2025
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure adherence to food safety standards.
- Developed and implemented efficient workflows for meal preparation and service.
- Trained new employees on cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Managed inventory levels to minimize waste and optimize cost control.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to enhance customer dining experience.
- Conducted regular quality checks to maintain high food presentation standards.
- Led team meetings to foster communication and address operational challenges.
Sous Chef
Caesars Entertainment
11.2018 - 06.2019
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure timely meal preparation and exceptional service quality.
- Developed and implemented seasonal menu items, enhancing guest dining experiences.
- Maintained inventory controls, reducing food waste through efficient ordering practices.
- Trained and mentored junior kitchen staff on culinary techniques and safety protocols.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations, promoting a safe working environment.
- Assisted in budgeting for food costs, contributing to overall financial performance of the restaurant.
Cook
Lucky Beaver Bar And Grill
08.2017 - 09.2018
- Prepared and cooked menu items following standard recipes and presentation guidelines.
- Collaborated with team to optimize kitchen workflow during peak hours.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced efficiency in meal preparation.
- Trained new staff on kitchen procedures, safety protocols, and equipment usage.
Lead Line Cook
Carson Valley Inn
12.2016 - 07.2017
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure timely meal preparation and service.
- Developed menu items by incorporating seasonal ingredients and culinary trends.
- Implemented food safety protocols to maintain high standards of hygiene and sanitation.
- Trained new cooks on kitchen procedures, equipment usage, and safety standards.
Chef De Cuisine
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
12.2015 - 10.2016
- Led culinary team in creating innovative Southern cuisine, enhancing menu offerings and guest satisfaction.
- Developed and executed seasonal menus, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and sustainability practices.
- Implemented training programs for kitchen staff, fostering high standards of food safety and hygiene compliance.
- Streamlined kitchen operations through effective inventory management, reducing waste and optimizing supply usage.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service delivery, improving overall guest experience.
- Conducted regular quality control checks on dishes prior to service, ensuring high standards of taste and presentation.
Education
GED -
Dept of Education
Christiansted, Virgin IslandsCulinary Diploma - Culinary Arts
N.M.U Job Corps Culinary Arts
Treasure Island07-1993
Skills
- Kitchen management
- Ingredient sourcing
- Sanitation standards
- Temperature control
- Cross-contamination prevention
- HACCP planning
- Menu development
- Ordering supplies
- Waste reduction
- Portion control
- Allergy awareness
- Cost control
Certification
- ServSafe Certification, ServSafe 5/31/2024 - 5/31/2029
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Cook Manager
Lucky Beaver Bar & Grill
08.2019 - 2025
Sous Chef
Caesars Entertainment
11.2018 - 06.2019
Cook
Lucky Beaver Bar And Grill
08.2017 - 09.2018
Lead Line Cook
Carson Valley Inn
12.2016 - 07.2017
Chef De Cuisine
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
12.2015 - 10.2016
GED -
Dept of Education
Culinary Diploma - Culinary Arts
N.M.U Job Corps Culinary Arts