David Gollan
Western Springs,IL
Summary
Food services professional with thirty years of experience managing teams of up to 100 members in hosting, waiting, and kitchen operations. Proven track record in menu development, procedural documentation, and training program creation. Expertise in employee relations and guest service, ensuring high satisfaction levels. Strong ability to integrate product knowledge with best service practices for optimal performance.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Agent
@ Properties Real Estate Group
12.2023 - Current
- Expanded client base by diligently prospecting new leads and effectively presenting product offerings.
- Boosted referral rates by cultivating positive relationships with satisfied customers who were eager to recommend our products/services to others.
- Negotiated contracts with prospective clients, helping to secure long-term business partnerships.
- Leveraged CRM software to efficiently track leads, manage contacts, and monitor progress toward goals.
- Negotiated prices, terms of sales and service agreements.
Owner Operator
Party Dave's/ Rockwich
12.2012 - 01.2022
- Sales, Events, Consulting, Menu planning
- In-home execution, Packaged meal plans, Delivery dinners
- Food truck owner-operator
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service and sales techniques, leading to increased performance levels.
- Optimized supply chain operations, negotiating with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products.
- Streamlined operational processes to improve efficiency with comprehensive audits and restructuring.
Executive Sous Chef
Stephanie Izard Inc.
07.2009 - 06.2012
- Catered high-end events across local and national platforms.
- Served as opening executive sous chef at Girl and the Goat restaurant.
- Contributed creatively to recipe development and testing for Girl and the Goat.
- Led staff hiring and training initiatives to enhance team performance.
- Organized kitchen workflow to optimize efficiency during meal service.
- Managed all ordering and inventory processes for restaurant operations.
- Collaborated on restaurant, kitchen, and menu design to elevate dining experience.
- Traveled nationwide with Food Network Star for promotional events.
Executive Sous Chef
Spiaggia
12.2006 - 06.2009
- Italian four-star fine dining
- Ensured compliance with all health department regulations while maintaining a well-organized workspace for optimal efficiency.
- Managed inventory control, reducing food waste and optimizing budget allocation.
- Collaborated with Executive Chef to design seasonal menus that showcased diverse flavors and techniques.
- Set up and broke down kitchen for service.
Sous Chef
Le Dome
09.2003 - 11.2006
- Catered events for high-profile clients, including Dr. Phil and Playboy magazine.
- Oversaw food preparation processes in a fast-paced kitchen, ensuring efficiency.
- Led menu planning discussions to develop innovative signature dishes praised by guests.
Education
Bachelor of Culinary Arts And Hospitality -
Le Cordon Bleu
Portland, OR07.2002
Associate of Arts - Art History, Psychology
University of New Mexico
Taos, NM07.1997
Skills
- Client relations
- Sales training
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Organizational skills
- Computer skills
- Calm under pressure
- Organization and time management
Timeline
Sales Agent
@ Properties Real Estate Group
12.2023 - Current
Owner Operator
Party Dave's/ Rockwich
12.2012 - 01.2022
Executive Sous Chef
Stephanie Izard Inc.
07.2009 - 06.2012
Executive Sous Chef
Spiaggia
12.2006 - 06.2009
Sous Chef
Le Dome
09.2003 - 11.2006
Bachelor of Culinary Arts And Hospitality -
Le Cordon Bleu
Associate of Arts - Art History, Psychology
University of New Mexico
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