Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
References
Timeline
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Gavino G. Borquez

Phoenix,Arizona

Summary

Innovative professional with a well-rounded food background and extensive knowledge of all kitchen equipment. High-energy leader emphasizing healthy dishes made with local ingredients. Creatively builds exciting meals to satisfy discerning customers. Seasoned Executive Chef with background in diverse culinary styles and management of kitchen operations. Proven expertise in menu development, cost control, and high-quality food preparation. Known for leadership skills, creativity, and commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences. Made significant impact by improving efficiency and streamlining processes in previous roles.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Executive Chef

Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Scottsdale
Phoenix, Arizona
06.2020 - Current
  • Create innovative and seasonal menus for various resort dining options (e.g., restaurant, lounge/pool, banquets, and room service).
  • Oversee the kitchen operations, ensuring high food quality, safety, and cleanliness standards.
  • Directed financial oversight ensuring efficient resource utilization.
  • Developed purchasing protocols focused on cost efficiency and ingredient quality.
  • Hired, trained, and mentored kitchen staff to ensure proficiency in food preparation techniques.

Director of Dining Services

The Mission at Agua Fria
Peoria, Arizona
06.2018 - 06.2020
  • Developed dining area design for a new senior living facility.
  • Developed and implemented menus that meet the dietary needs of senior residents, including those with special dietary restrictions (e.g., low-sodium, low-sugar, gluten-free).
  • Recruited the kitchen staff, servers, and dining room attendants, ensuring you brought in people with experience in senior dining needs.
  • Ensured that all health codes and food safety regulations were met before opening. This included certifications, inspections, and making sure everything met local regulations.
  • Monitored and adjusted meal services in response to resident needs.
  • Ensured high-quality food and service by adhering to allocated financial plan.

Executive Chef

The Heritage at Carefree
Scottdale, Arizona
02.2017 - 06.2018
  • Directed team of kitchen staff, supervising sous chefs, cooks, and assistants.
  • Coordinated and executed menu planning, recipe development, and daily restaurant operations.
  • Analyzed customer feedback data to improve existing recipes or create new ones.
  • Ensured compliance with health department regulations by implementing proper sanitation procedures.

Owner/Executive Chef

The Local Cholo Food Concept
Phoenix, Arizona
09.2015 - 02.2017
  • Created event-focused culinary offerings, catering to diverse occasions such as weddings, corporate functions, and casual gatherings.
  • Led startup and creation of operational procedures and workflow planning.
  • Negotiated with vendors to gain optimal pricing on products resulting in a substantial increase in profit margin.
  • Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Executive Chef

Hilton Phoenix Airport
Phoenix, Arizona
07.2014 - 09.2015
  • Lead all kitchen staff, including sous chefs, line cooks, and other support personnel.
  • Coordinated and executed menu planning, recipe development, and daily restaurant/banquet operations.
  • Trained and supervised line cooks to develop new skills and improve team performance
  • Supervised the selection, training, scheduling, and performance of kitchen personnel.
  • Maintained excellent relationships with local farmers to secure fresh produce for menu items.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Applied Nutrition And Health

Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
12-2024

Continuing Education Certificate - Culinary Arts

Culinary Institute of America
Saint Helena, CA
08-2010

Associate of Arts - Culinary Arts

Johnson & Wales University
Denver, CO
05-2005

Skills

  • Food preparation techniques
  • Banquets and catering
  • Signature dish creation
  • Food and beverage pairing
  • Business operations oversight
  • Staff training
  • Workflow optimization
  • Forecasting and planning
  • Vendor relations
  • Purchasing management
  • Team leadership
  • Recruitment and onboarding

Affiliations

  • Salsa Competition participant
  • Volunteering

Accomplishments

  • Leader of the Quarter Winner
  • Leader of the Year Runner-Up
  • Numerous Employee of the Month nominations and wins

Certification

  • ServSafe Manager Certificate
  • First-Aid Certified
  • Cum-Laude Graduate

Languages

Spanish
Professional

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Executive Chef

Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Scottsdale
06.2020 - Current

Director of Dining Services

The Mission at Agua Fria
06.2018 - 06.2020

Executive Chef

The Heritage at Carefree
02.2017 - 06.2018

Owner/Executive Chef

The Local Cholo Food Concept
09.2015 - 02.2017

Executive Chef

Hilton Phoenix Airport
07.2014 - 09.2015
  • ServSafe Manager Certificate
  • First-Aid Certified
  • Cum-Laude Graduate

Bachelor of Science - Applied Nutrition And Health

Arizona State University

Continuing Education Certificate - Culinary Arts

Culinary Institute of America

Associate of Arts - Culinary Arts

Johnson & Wales University
Gavino G. Borquez