Ahmed Whittaker
Big Lake,MN
Summary
Accomplished VP of Culinary at Redstone American Grill, I drove organizational growth and operational excellence, enhancing business profitability through strategic initiatives and financial acumen. Adept in talent recruitment and fostering a culture of high performance, my leadership significantly improved employee retention and customer satisfaction. Multi-talented Senior Executive knowledgeable about sales, operations, and personnel management. Successful at stepping into diverse positions and making immediate positive contributions. Focused on optimizing operations and motivating employees while establishing market dominance.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
VP of Culinary
Redstone American Grill
02.2024 - 07.2024
- I hired and managed employees to maximize productivity while training staff on best practices and protocols.
- Spearheaded cross-functional initiatives across departments to achieve business goals for bottom-line profits.
- Aligned organizational objectives with the company mission to increase business growth and integrate work strategies.
- Implemented cost-saving measures by conducting thorough financial analysis and identifying areas of inefficiency within the organization.
- Cultivated a high-performance culture within the organization by setting clear expectations for employees at all levels, providing regular feedback, and recognizing achievement.
Director of Culinary Operations
Redstone American Grill
08.2021 - 02.2024
- Monitored industry trends closely to adapt the restaurant's offerings accordingly while preserving the brand's overall vision.
- Oversaw hiring processes for new employees within the culinary department, selecting candidates based on skill level as well as cultural fit within the organization's values.
- Led a team of culinary professionals, providing mentorship, training, and development opportunities to advance their careers.
- Boosted employee retention rates by creating a positive work atmosphere that fostered professional growth opportunities amongst staff members.
- Organized successful culinary events such as guest chef dinners or themed tasting nights to generate additional revenue streams for the business.
Regional Executive Chef
Redstone American Grill
08.2017 - 08.2021
- Improved overall dining experience by collaborating with other regional executive chefs to share best practices and innovative ideas.
- Oversaw budgeting processes for multiple kitchens, ensuring financial targets were met without compromising quality or guest satisfaction.
- Developed unique culinary concepts for various events, maximizing customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Provided ongoing feedback to team members, promoting continuous skill development and career growth opportunities within the organization.
- Managed multiple kitchens in the region, ensuring consistent quality across all locations.
Executive Chef
Pei Wei Asian Diner
04.2005 - 12.2005
- Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
- Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
- Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurants.
- Fostered a positive working environment among kitchen team members that encouraged collaboration, creativity, and open communication.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
St Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MNSkills
- Organizational Development
- Operations Management
- Corporate Communications
- Digital Transformation
- Operational leadership
- Operational management
- Performance Improvement
- Growth planning
- Financial Acumen
- Negotiation
- Approachable leader
- Talent Recruitment
Timeline
VP of Culinary
Redstone American Grill
02.2024 - 07.2024
Director of Culinary Operations
Redstone American Grill
08.2021 - 02.2024
Regional Executive Chef
Redstone American Grill
08.2017 - 08.2021
Executive Chef
Pei Wei Asian Diner
04.2005 - 12.2005
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
St Cloud State University
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