ELENA BERESNEVA
New York
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented leader with 10+ years of experience in culinary operations, workforce development, and nutrition-focused programming. Skilled in managing multi-unit food service, leading training initiatives, and executing large-scale events. Proven success in budget oversight ($12M+), strategic partnerships, and program expansion. Committed to fostering inclusive, sustainable, and socially impactful experiences.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Culinary Operations
Drive Change
04.2023 - Current
- Lead culinary training for justice-involved youth; manage catering and food truck ops.
- Managed $2.5M+ budget; increased program efficiency
- Expanded reach by 40% via strategic partnerships
- Implemented nutrition education and sustainable menu practices
Managing Partner
Little Choc Apothecary
03.2021 - 04.2023
- Oversaw rebrand and expansion of plant-based crêperie.
- Increased revenue by 40%
- Reduced food costs by 25%
- Managed operations, menu development, and events
Multi-Unit Manager
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
08.2020 - 04.2021
- Standardized operations across 8 NYC locations; launched new products.
- Drove 15% YoY sales growth
Area Leader
Sweetgreen
04.2018 - 04.2020
- Directed multi-unit restaurant operations with $12M+ in revenue.
- Integrated nutrition education into CSR programs
Event Manager
NYC VegFoodFest
03.2017 - 03.2020
- Planned NYC's largest plant-based festival (100+ vendors).
- Boosted sponsorship revenue by 25%
- Led sustainability initiatives
Manager/Chef
Little Choc Apothecary
03.2014 - 03.2018
- Led kitchen team, created menus, and improved scheduling systems.
Education
Master in International Affairs -
Baruch College
01.2022 - 1 2024
Culinary Arts - undefined
Natural Gourmet Institute
BA - Journalism
Siberian State University
Skills
- ServSafe Certified
- Project Management (PMP)
- Salesforce
- Asana
- Smartsheet
- HubSpot
- Google Suite
- Culinary Training
- Menu Design
- Sustainability & DEI
- Budgeting ($12M)
- Event Logistics
- Leadership Development
Affiliations
Refugee Resettlement Volunteer, Catholic Charities NYC, 2022
Timeline
Director of Culinary Operations
Drive Change
04.2023 - Current
Master in International Affairs -
Baruch College
01.2022 - 1 2024
Managing Partner
Little Choc Apothecary
03.2021 - 04.2023
Multi-Unit Manager
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
08.2020 - 04.2021
Area Leader
Sweetgreen
04.2018 - 04.2020
Event Manager
NYC VegFoodFest
03.2017 - 03.2020
Manager/Chef
Little Choc Apothecary
03.2014 - 03.2018
Culinary Arts - undefined
Natural Gourmet Institute
BA - Journalism
Siberian State University
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