Altruistic professional with expertise in transformational leadership and strategic partnerships. Proficient in menu development and kitchen staff management, focusing on healthy meal options. Recognized for fostering an engaged workplace culture and upholding high standards in food preparation and presentation.
Work History
HEALTH CARE ADVOCATE
Privately-Employed
Madison, AL
09.2020 - 09.2025
Guided clients in navigating healthcare services and accessing necessary resources.
Facilitated communication between clients and healthcare providers to enhance service delivery.
Advocated for client needs during care planning meetings, ensuring comprehensive support.
Coordinated transportation services for clients facing physical limitations or resource constraints.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to improve patient care outcomes.
Maintained communication with family members regarding patient care decisions.
Established relationships with service providers to secure access to essential services for clients.
INNOVATIVE ENTREPRENEUR
Kentropy Solutions
Madison, AL
09.2020 - 09.2025
Founded and developed innovative solutions for diverse client needs.
Established vendor relationships to optimize supply chain efficiency.
Maintained key client relationships to secure repeat business.
Resolved issues through meticulous research and swift decision-making.
Identified and secured strategic vendor partnerships.
Set direction to establish desired business image.
Built a team of highly-skilled professionals to support objectives.
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Chefs for Seniors
Huntsville, AL
02.2023 - 10.2024
Supervised kitchen staff to maintain high standards in food preparation and presentation.
Developed seasonal menus featuring fresh, nutritious ingredients to enhance dining experiences.
Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations through rigorous food handling practices and inspections.
Trained new chefs on essential cooking techniques and efficient kitchen operations.
Collaborated with clients to tailor personalized dining experiences based on preferences.
Created innovative menu items while managing food expenses to optimize profitability.
Directed specialty dish preparation to fulfill customer requests and accommodate dietary needs.
Monitored quality and presentation of plated food to uphold restaurant standards.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Performance Food Group, PFG
Marshall, MN
01.2019 - 09.2020
Implemented process improvements that boosted operational efficiency.
Monitored team performance, delivering regular constructive feedback.
Organized shipments and optimized loading procedures for timely delivery.
Collaborated with departments to swiftly resolve logistical issues.
Generated shipping documents, packing lists, and invoices for warehouse operations.
Addressed day-to-day operational problems in a timely manner.
Provided leadership to motivate staff toward achieving performance goals.
DIRECTOR OF CULINARY SERVICES
Heritage Pointe Senior Living
Marshall, MN
2015 - 01.2019
Oversaw daily kitchen operations to ensure high-quality meal preparation.
Developed and implemented culinary training programs for staff development.
Managed food inventory and procurement processes to enhance efficiency.
Coordinated menu planning based on resident preferences and dietary requirements.
Supervised kitchen staff, providing mentorship to foster skills and growth.
Ensured compliance with health codes by enforcing strict sanitary practices.
Organized special events including banquets, receptions, and theme dinners.
Maintained accurate records of staffing, payroll, budgeting, and inventory control.
MANAGING CHEF
Boulder Estates Assisted Living
Marshall, MN
02.2010 - 11.2015
Oversaw daily kitchen operations in senior living community to ensure smooth functioning.
Supervised kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations.
Trained new team members on food preparation techniques and safety protocols.
Organized special events by creating themed menus for resident celebrations.
Cultivated positive team atmosphere through effective communication and collaboration.
Resolved customer complaints swiftly while maintaining professionalism.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Education & Psychology
SMSU - SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
Marshall, MN
10-1997
Some College (No Degree) - Music Production & Entertainment Business
COLORADO INSTITUTE OF ART
Denver, CO
09-1989
High School - Diploma Earned
MURRAY COUNTY CENTRAL
Slayton, MN
08-1989
Skills
Client advocacy and care coordination
Culinary management
Customer relationship management
Team leadership
Process improvement
Event planning
Strategic partnerships
Creative advantage
Effective communication
Problem resolution
Attention to detail
Innovative thinking and design thinking
Community Connection
My father taught me an important lesson: "Leave things in a better state than they were when you first encountered them". I have long since had the ambition to strive, where I can and how I can, to make a positive and lasting impact within my community.
MEMBER: Greater Rochester Rotary Club, "Providing service to others, promoting integrity, and understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. We envision a community where people unite and take action to create lasting change."
References
Maryann Vecchio | Chefs for Seniors
maryann.vehcchio@chefsforseniors.com
205-514-5051
Melody Crane | The Riley Center
melody.crane@therileycenter.org
(256) 882-2457
Jessica Paxton | The Goldton @ Athens
Jessica.paxton@thegoldtonatathens.com
205-388-7755
Karen Alfson | Performance Food Group
Karen.alfson@pfg.com
507-530-3306
John Steilen | Boulder Estates
507-829-8963
Traci Schlecht | Kitchen Assistant
507-227-6848
Timeline
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Chefs for Seniors
02.2023 - 10.2024
HEALTH CARE ADVOCATE
Privately-Employed
09.2020 - 09.2025
INNOVATIVE ENTREPRENEUR
Kentropy Solutions
09.2020 - 09.2025
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Performance Food Group, PFG
01.2019 - 09.2020
MANAGING CHEF
Boulder Estates Assisted Living
02.2010 - 11.2015
DIRECTOR OF CULINARY SERVICES
Heritage Pointe Senior Living
2015 - 01.2019
Some College (No Degree) - Education & Psychology
SMSU - SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
Some College (No Degree) - Music Production & Entertainment Business