Energetic culinary professional with a blend of creativity, passion for food and exceptional cooking skills. Works well as a dynamic leader in high-pressure settings. Expert in managing kitchen staff and preparing foods at reduced cost without compromising quality and taste. Motivated Chef offering over 30 years experience in the food industry. Focused on high standards for taste and quality, while maintaining profitable margins. Superior communication and leadership skills.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
cook ll
The Inn at Palmetto Bluff
Bluffton, SC
08.2014 - Current
Prepared food items consistently and in compliance with recipes, portioning, cooking and waste control guidelines.
Verified proper portion sizes and consistently attained high food quality standards.
Instructed new staff in proper food preparation, food storage, use of kitchen equipment and utensils, sanitation and safety issues.
Regularly interacted with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels.
Inspected kitchens to observe food preparation quality and service, food appearance and cleanliness of production and service areas.
cook ll
Sodexo
Paris Island, SC
02.2010 - 09.2013
Verified proper portion sizes and consistently attained high food quality standards.
Prepared food items consistently and in compliance with recipes, portioning, cooking and waste control guidelines.
Inspected kitchens to observe food preparation quality and service, food appearance and cleanliness of production and service areas.
Properly labeled and stored all raw food ingredients including produce, meat, fish, poultry, dairy and dry goods in the appropriate storage room, walk-in refrigerator, freezer or cooler.
Practiced safe food handling procedures at all times.
Lead Morning Chef
Holiday Inn & Suites
Beaufort, SC
02.2007 - 10.2010
Verified freshness of products upon delivery.
Comprehensive knowledge of food and catering trends
Accurately and efficiently prepared healthy, delicious fish, meat and vegetable-based dishes.
Practiced safe food handling procedures at all times.
Positively engaged with customers, offering menu information, providing suggestions and showing genuine appreciation for their business.
Supervised kitchen staff of 20 people and ensured proper event set-up, food preparation, kitchen clean-up and proper shut down.
chef
The Inn at Palmetto Bluff
Bluffton, SC
09.2002 - 10.2007
Supported all kitchen operations when chef was absent.
Maintained daily cleanliness of broiler and fryers.
Executed daily production lists and goals
Helped with preparation, set-up, and service for catering events
Prepared meals in private homes according to employers' recipes or tastes
Stocked, organized, and cleaned kitchens and cooking utensils
Stored food in designated containers and storage areas to prevent spoilage
Communicated with other kitchen team members to ensure food was prepared on time and correctly
Monitored food preparation and serving techniques to ensure that proper procedures were followed
Observed and tested foods using methods such as tasting, smelling, or piercing them with utensils
Operated large-volume cooking equipment such as grills, deep-fat fryers, and griddles
Provided excellent customer service
Followed all safety and sanitation policies when handling food and beverage to uphold proper health standards.
Led and directed team members on effective methods, operations and procedures.
Education
Culinary Arts - Culinary Arts
Technical College of the Lowcountry
2002
Skills
Institutional and batch cooking
Beautiful presentation of food
Cake decorating expertise
Strong attention to safe food handling procedures
Food presentation talent
Strong work ethic
Natural leader
Honest, trustworthy and punctual
Food safety certified
On time and reliable
Proficient in customer service
Management and leadership experience
Additional Information
Christine Speaks, I'm a eager professial and committed chef who's passion is about cooking and preparing great foods.