ESSENCE EVANS
Palm Bay,FL
Summary
Compassionate professional transitioning into early childhood education with over a decade of leadership experience. Expertise in creating safe, organized environments and fostering positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Committed to nurturing an inclusive classroom that promotes social, emotional, and academic growth.
Overview
1
1
Certification
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Food & Beverage Lead
Target
Palm Bay, FL
03.2026 - Current
- Lead daily team operations while maintaining a safe, clean, and organized environment.
- Trained, mentored, and coached team members to enhance skills and foster teamwork.
- Prioritize responsibilities and adapt quickly to changing needs in a fast-paced setting.
- Built positive relationships with guests and team members, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
- Collaborated with leadership to streamline daily operations and uphold safety standards.
Kitchen Director
Erin McKenna's Bakery
Disney Springs, FL
01.2025 - 03.2026
- Directed daily operations, Mentored diverse team to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
- Delivered exceptional customer service, building positive relationships with guests and families to enhance overall experience.
- Conducted training sessions for employees to improve skills and knowledge. Fostered teamwork and accountability to support professional growth.
- Maintained high standards for cleanliness, organization, and safety.
Regional Kitchen Manager
Erin McKenna's Bakery
01.2019 - 01.2024
- Hired, trained, and mentored employees, enhancing individual and team success through targeted coaching.
- Supervised teams across multiple locations, fostering a positive and supportive work environment that encouraged collaboration.
- Organized schedules, coordinated daily activities, and ensured efficient operations.
- Resolved issues calmly and effectively, ensuring clear communication with staff and leadership to maintain operational flow.
Pastry Chef / Front Counter
Erin McKenna's Bakery
Los Angeles, CA
11.2014 - 01.2019
- Coordinated interactive baking parties and educational activities for children, fostering engagement and learning.
- Guided children through age-appropriate baking projects while encouraging creativity, teamwork, and confidence.
- Created a welcoming, engaging, and safe environment for children and their families.
- Informed customers about specialty products, enhancing their experience through personalized service.
- Ensured organized workspaces and strict adherence to health and safety procedures, promoting a safe environment.
Head Chef / Manager
Gunpowder
Venice, CA
08.2014 - 10.2015
- Coordinated daily schedules and delegated responsibilities to ensure smooth operations.
- Supervised and trained front- and back-of-house team members to enhance service quality.
- Built positive relationships with customers through friendly and professional service, fostering customer loyalty.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
Front Counter / Baker / Cake Decorator
Scarlett's Cupcakes
Pacific Palisades, CA
07.2013 - 03.2014
- Crafted visually appealing cakes and cupcakes, enhancing customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
- Guided customers in selecting and personalizing orders, enhancing overall shopping experience.
- Organized and led children's baking parties, fostering creativity, participation, and teamwork among young bakers.
Education
Associate of Science - Baking & Pastry
The International Culinary School Art Institute
California - Los Angeles06-2014
Skills
- Food Safety Compliance
- Health compliance
- Menu Development
- Operational Organization
- Customer Service Excellence
- Guest Engagement Strategies
- Team Leadership
- Team Collaboration
- Problem Solving
- Time management
- Microsoft Office
- Google Workspace
- Email applications
- Lesson support
Certification
- ServSafe Manager
- ServSafe Food Handler
Volunteer Experience
- Vacation Bible School Camp Leader, Antelope Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church, Antelope, CA, Supervised preschool and elementary-aged children during daily activities., Assisted with crafts, music, games, and educational lessons., Helped create a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment., Worked collaboratively with teachers, volunteers, and families.
- Dance Teacher's Assistant, Oakmont High School, Roseville, CA, Assisted instructors with classroom activities and supported student participation.
- Volunteer, Loaves & Fishes, Sacramento, CA, Assisted with community outreach and volunteer service activities.
Timeline
Food & Beverage Lead
Target
03.2026 - Current
Kitchen Director
Erin McKenna's Bakery
01.2025 - 03.2026
Regional Kitchen Manager
Erin McKenna's Bakery
01.2019 - 01.2024
Pastry Chef / Front Counter
Erin McKenna's Bakery
11.2014 - 01.2019
Head Chef / Manager
Gunpowder
08.2014 - 10.2015
Front Counter / Baker / Cake Decorator
Scarlett's Cupcakes
07.2013 - 03.2014
Associate of Science - Baking & Pastry
The International Culinary School Art Institute