Job Search Status
Open to workDesired start date: 2 weeks notice
Work Type
Full TimeLocation Preference
On-SiteRemoteHybridLocation: Madison, WI, US
Open to relocation: Yes
Open To Work
Verified
This profile is verified using an email address.
Ellen Cooley
Madison,WI
Work Preference
Summary
I am a hard-driven individual with an inspiring interest in criminal justice and psychology. I demonstrate effective team management, conflict resolution, and composure in high-pressure environments. I have continued to develop my communication skills to help with positive interactions and commitment to service.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Culinary Manager
Cafe Zupas
Madison, WI
09.2025 - Current
- Managed daily operations in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Supervised back of house staff to ensure efficient workflow.
- Led, trained and developed culinary team members to meet and exceed restaurant standards.
- Coached and mentored staff to achieve professional development goals and enhance culinary skills.
- Trained new staff on kitchen protocols and equipment usage.
- Implemented food safety standards and sanitation practices across the team.
- Conducted regular inspections to maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen.
- Coordinated inventory management and supply ordering for kitchen needs.
- Analyzed sales reports to identify trends in customer preferences.
- Contributed to successful shift management by helping with inventory and food ordering as well as work assignments.
- Implemented cost-saving measures that upheld high quality standards in food preparation and service.
- Supervised daily prep work for all kitchen stations.
- Instructed and coached staff on proper portion control methods for all menu items.
- Resolved customer complaints regarding food quality or service issues.
- Handled escalated customer service issues professionally and courteously.
- Handled escalated customer service issues professionally and courteously.
PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD
Panera Bread Co.
Delafield, Wisconsin
07.2019 - 08.2025
- Coordinate operations of the production line, ensuring food quality, food safety, and speed of service met.
- Train and support new and existing team members to improve efficiency and maintain a positive work environment.
- Assisted in enforcing health and safety protocols in the workplace to ensure compliance.
- Promoted to Team Lead by consistently demonstrating reliability, initiative, and strong teamwork skills.
- Successfully trained multiple new hires, which improved team performance.
- Recognized by management for maintaining high production standards during high-volume periods and store inspections.
- Led and delegated tasks during understaffed shifts to maintain service quality and boost team morale.
- Rotated products and managed inventory to ensure freshness and reduce waste.
- Provided friendly and efficient customer service, including answering questions, special orders, and making good quality items.
- Followed food safety and sanitation procedures with policies.
- Received positive feedback from customers and management for attentiveness and work ethic.
- Trained new team members on safety practices, cleaning procedures, and item production to ensure operational efficiency.
- Maintained great attendance and reliability in a physically demanding and fast-paced environment.
HOME MEAL SOLUTIONS ASSOCIATE
Sam's Club
Waukesha, WI
06.2024 - 01.2025
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
- Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
- Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
- Engaged customers in conversation using effective interpersonal skills to enhance their experience.
- Delivered excellent service and attention to customers during face-to-face interactions and phone conversations.
- Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
Education
BACHELOR OF ARTS - Criminal Justice, Psychology
University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Eau Claire, WI05-2025
HIGH SCHOOL DEPLOMA -
Kettle Moraine High School
Wales, WI06-2021
Skills
- Food Safety
- Inventory Management
- Planning
- Team Coordination
- Leadership
- Training
- Dispute resolution
- Conflict management
- Communication
- Accountability
- Work Ethic
- Interpersonal skills
- Empathy
- Relationship building
Projects
Field Experience Project, Stanley, WI
Volunteer Experience
Inspiring Service, Jessica Beutler, jessinspiringservice.org, Created engaging profiles for non-profit organizations in Wisconsin and Michigan to help visibility and attract potential volunteers, supporting community engagement and non-profit organization efforts.
Personal Information
Date of Birth: 07/24/02
Languages
Spanish
Elementary
Timeline
Culinary Manager
Cafe Zupas
09.2025 - Current
HOME MEAL SOLUTIONS ASSOCIATE
Sam's Club
06.2024 - 01.2025
PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD
Panera Bread Co.
07.2019 - 08.2025
BACHELOR OF ARTS - Criminal Justice, Psychology
University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
HIGH SCHOOL DEPLOMA -
Kettle Moraine High School