Hi, I’m
Danielle Willis
Kissimmee,FL
Summary
Excel in problem-solving, decision-making, and offering superior customer service. Strong communication skills, both written and oral. Able to handle simultaneous projects and meet deadlines effectively. Technically proficient in MS Office, Email, and Internet. Effective interpersonal skills. Works well as a team member with people at all levels; equally capable of working independently. Motivated Sous Chef polished in keeping kitchen staff on task and handling high-volume work. Knowledgeable about sourcing ingredients, maintaining budgets and maximizing customer satisfaction. Works with management to analyze food costs and forecast business trends to meet company goals.
Overview
13
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
Walt Disney World ResortOrlando , FL
Sous Chef
03.2023 - Current
Job overview
- Assisted in menu development and recipe testing.
- Coordinated ordering, receiving, storage, and distribution of food items.
- Monitored inventory levels to ensure adequate supplies on hand.
- Directed kitchen staff in day-to-day operations including food production, sanitation, safety practices, and personnel management.
- Trained new hires in proper cooking techniques and recipes.
- Maintained accurate records for cost analysis purposes.
- Supervised cooks and other kitchen personnel during meal services.
- Performed weekly inspections of all equipment for safety compliance.
- Complied with all health department regulations regarding proper food handling methods.
- Created a positive work environment by encouraging teamwork among staff members.
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify areas of improvement in service or product quality.
- Enforced portion control guidelines to minimize costs associated with overproduction.
- Conducted regular performance reviews with line cooks while providing constructive feedback where necessary.
- Assessed inventory levels and placed orders to replenish goods before supplies depleted.
- Liaised closely with kitchen and front-of-house personnel.
- Determined schedules and staff requirements necessary to prepare and plate food.
Walt Disney WorldOrlando, Florida
Chef Assistant
02.2011 - 03.2023
Job overview
- Provide training to new staff/ existing staff members
- Help oversee the daily kitchen operation
- Maintain quality control by ensuring proper cooking techniques and recipes are followed
- Prepares allergy-friendly foods
- Proficient knowledge of how to use all kitchen equipment
- Demonstrates knowledge of HAACP, food safety, and proper food handling
- Demonstrates good judgement regarding food quality and production amounts
- Cultivated knowledge of modern and classic cooking techniques
- Assist with recipe development
- Worked as a Baking/Pastry Chef Assistant.
- Assisted Chef in preparing ingredients for various dishes.
- Documented daily production sheets for each dish prepared.
- Organized walk-in coolers and freezers according to FIFO principles.
- Communicated with wait staff regarding special orders or dietary restrictions.
- Displayed a positive attitude while working under pressure in a busy environment.
UniversalOrlando, Florida
Line Cook
01.2018 - 03.2020
Job overview
- Setup and stock station according to business needs
- Assisted with prep
- Technically proficient in sushi rolling techniques
- Prepared foods according to plate and batch recipes
- Provided daily documentation of product spoilage and production
- Followed established safety standards using safe food handling guidelines
- Maintained clean work environment.
- Tracked inventory levels of all products used in the kitchen on a daily basis.
- Communicated effectively with other staff members regarding orders and menu changes.
- Worked closely with management team in order to meet budget goals while maintaining high quality standards.
IHOPOrlando, Florida
Line Cook
05.2014 - 08.2017
Job overview
- Part of the opening team
- Maintained accurate records of daily production sheets including waste logs.
- Tracked inventory levels of all products used in the kitchen on a daily basis.
- Inspected supplies, equipment, and work areas to ensure conformance to established standards
- Provided training to employees on company procedures
- Monitored sanitation practices to ensure that employees follow standards and regulations
- Experience responding/referring to customer complaints and inquiries
- Cross-trained for Front of the House position
- Worked independently without supervisors on the overnight shift
- Handled money and server’s bank.
- Organized the storage area to ensure that all necessary items were readily accessible.
Education
Bellevue University
Master of Science from Human Resources Strategic Management
11.2023
Bellevue University
Bachelor of Arts from History
05.2022
Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary ArtsAtlanta, GA
Associate of Culinary Arts from Culinary Arts
01.2011
Agnes Scott College
Bachelor of Science from Economics/ Organizational Management
12.2008
Skills
- Workflow Optimization
- Food Safety
- Cost Control
- Customer Service
- Inventory Management
- Vendor Relationship Management
- Motivational Team Management
- Kitchen Management
- Mentoring and Coaching
- Positive and Professional
- Safety Management
- Performance Improvement
- Staff Training
- Operations Support
- Team Leadership
Certification
- Certified Food Safety Manager
Timeline
Sous Chef
Walt Disney World Resort
03.2023 - Current
Line Cook
Universal
01.2018 - 03.2020
Line Cook
IHOP
05.2014 - 08.2017
Chef Assistant
Walt Disney World
02.2011 - 03.2023
Bellevue University
Master of Science from Human Resources Strategic Management
Bellevue University
Bachelor of Arts from History
Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts
Associate of Culinary Arts from Culinary Arts
Agnes Scott College
Bachelor of Science from Economics/ Organizational Management