Dana East
Houston
Summary
Culinary professional with strong focus on team collaboration and delivering exceptional results. Demonstrates expertise in menu development, kitchen management, and high-quality food preparation. Reliable and adaptable, ensuring consistent excellence in fast-paced, changing environments. Known for leadership, creativity, and maintaining high standards in all culinary operations.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef
State Fare Kitchen & Bar
10.2023 - 11.2024
- Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
- Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless dining experiences for guests.
- Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
Assistant General Manager
Lupe Tortilla
05.2017 - 08.2022
- During time with company the different positions held were Lead Kitchen Manager, Manager Trainer, Lead Cook and then ultimately Assistant General Manager.
- Handled cash accurately and prepared deposits.
- Oversaw inventory management processes to maintain proper stock levels and minimize spoilage or waste.
- Motivated, trained, and disciplined employees to maximize performance.
- Developed and implemented new operational procedures, streamlining daily tasks and improving overall efficiency.
- Collaborated with the General Manager on marketing initiatives to increase brand awareness and drive sales growth.
- Monitored facility maintenance needs, coordinating repairs and upgrades as necessary to keep operations running smoothly.
- Increased customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving concerns in a timely manner.
General Manager
Newk's Eatery
04.2015 - 03.2017
- Starting position with company was Product Manager, then after opening a new location was given position of General Manager.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Developed and was in charge of a successful catering program.
Catering Manager
Katz's Deli & Bar
03.2014 - 04.2015
- Successfully managed a diverse range of events including weddings, corporate functions, and special occasions, consistently exceeding client expectations.
- Hired and trained both permanent and temporary staff members.
- Managed high-quality food preparation and presentation, ensuring consistent client satisfaction.
- Handled catering scheduling, ordered food and planned events.
- Developed comprehensive event proposals that clearly outlined deliverables, timelines, budget requirements based on client input.
- Coordinated with event planners for floor and table layouts, guest numbers, and overall catering needs.
- Achieved increased client retention rates by providing exceptional customer service throughout the event planning process.
Catering Manager
Freebirds World Burrito
07.2012 - 01.2014
- Managed high-quality food preparation and presentation, ensuring consistent client satisfaction.
- Met with clients to outline desired goals and prepared quotes for overall catering costs.
- Enhanced event satisfaction by planning and executing memorable catering experiences for clients.
- Proactively addressed any issues or concerns from clients or staff members promptly and professionally resolved them.
- Participated in industry conferences and networking events to stay current on trends within the catering sector continually.
- Coordinated logistics for multiple events simultaneously, maintaining seamless operations and timely execution.
Education
Associate of Arts - Art Education
University of Houston
Houston, TXSkills
- Food safety
- Menu planning
- Cost control
- Hospitality service expertise
- ServSafe certification
- Hiring, training, and development
- Operations management
Timeline
Executive Chef
State Fare Kitchen & Bar
10.2023 - 11.2024
Assistant General Manager
Lupe Tortilla
05.2017 - 08.2022
General Manager
Newk's Eatery
04.2015 - 03.2017
Catering Manager
Katz's Deli & Bar
03.2014 - 04.2015
Catering Manager
Freebirds World Burrito
07.2012 - 01.2014
Associate of Arts - Art Education
University of Houston
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