Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Cecilia Prentice

San Jose,CA

Summary

Professional operations and culinary leader with consistent track record in optimizing processes, program planning and driving impactful results. Proven ability to lead teams, implement strategic initiatives, and adapt to changing environments with ease. Skilled in program management, process improvement, and relationship building. Known for effective collaboration, communication and leadership.

Work History

Director of Operations

Jillbee Delivers, Inc.
  • Oversee all aspects of a high-volume corporate catering company, ensuring effective coordination, client satisfaction and execution of daily tasks.
  • Monitor budgets and resources and oversee all operational strategies to drive customer engagement, profitability, growth and productivity. Forecast and strategize on business changes and opportunities.
  • Develop menus and menu themes, identify food trends, plan cultural food events and pop-ups and develop sustainability measures. Work with Executive Chef to maximize quality, minimize food costs and ensure client satisfaction.
  • Establish strong partnerships with vendors, suppliers, and key stakeholders to improve collaboration and ensure alignment with business requirements.
  • Develop RPFs for future business and manage QBR process and presentations. Interact as senior contact with clients to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Collaborate with the owner on all company decisions

Independent Consultant

Cecilia Prentice Food Consulting
  • Consulted with individuals and companies in the restaurant and retail space on business strategies, marketing, merchandising, communications, and production.
  • Conducted meetings with clients to determine project intent, requirements and budgets.
  • Assisted clients in identifying new market opportunities, product assortments, and supply chain opportunities.
  • Fostered strong relationships with clients through consistent communication and collaboration.

Merchant

Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
  • Roles included Retail Book, Bakeware and Music Merchant, Associate Food Merchant, Food Specialist and Product Information Specialist.
  • Managed programs with annual sales of over $50M, analyzed sales data to identify underperforming products and manage product lifecycles, developed strong relationships with vendors to secure exclusive merchandise, developed new products, and enhanced product assortment. Met all sales and margin goals.
  • Worked closely with company Founder Chuck Williams to innovate and re-energize branded cookbook program.
  • Collaborated with marketing and other merchant teams to create compelling product storytelling, boosting product visibility and sales.
  • Favorite projects included development of branded cake mixes, flavored oils and the Williams-Sonoma Collection Cookbook series.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - English

Tulane University
New Orleans, LA

Associates Degree - Culinary Arts

California Culinary Academy
San Francisco, CA

Skills

  • Client engagement
  • Strategic planning and execution
  • Operations oversight
  • Negotiation expertise
  • Business analysis
  • Customer relationship
  • Industry expertise
  • Contract management
  • Team development
  • Culinary Expertise

Timeline

Director of Operations

Jillbee Delivers, Inc.

Independent Consultant

Cecilia Prentice Food Consulting

Merchant

Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

Bachelor of Arts - English

Tulane University

Associates Degree - Culinary Arts

California Culinary Academy
Cecilia Prentice