Hailey Cook
Lakeland,FL
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with over six years of experience in restaurant operations and staff leadership. Proven ability to excel in high-volume environments while ensuring exceptional guest engagement and strict adherence to safety standards. Committed to elevating service quality through strategic team collaboration and effective communication, driving customer satisfaction and operational excellence. Passionate about fostering a positive work culture that empowers staff to consistently deliver outstanding service.
Overview
1
1
Certification
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Server
The Patio Lakeland
Lakeland, FL
02.2024 - 01.2025
- Provided exceptional customer service in fast-paced environment, ensuring guest satisfaction and loyalty.
- Managed order accuracy and timely delivery, enhancing overall dining experience for patrons.
- Guided and developed new staff in menu knowledge and service protocols to ensure consistency.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline communication and improve food service efficiency.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, fostering positive relationships and encouraging repeat business.
Kitchen Supervisor
Whole Foods
Columbus, NE
10.2021 - 01.2022
- Inspected kitchen areas, ensuring organization and sanitation standards were met.
- Communicated with guests to ensure service met expectations
- Resolved conflicts among staff promptly, fostering a positive work environment and teamwork culture.
- Coordinated food prep tasks and supported inventory rotation to maintain freshness.
- Managed kitchen personnel to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and optimize workflow.
- Organized and managed food preparation and production schedules to minimize downtime and improve workflow.
Server
Chili’s Grill & Bar
Columbus, NE
07.2021 - 10.2021
- Cultivated positive interactions with guests to promote enjoyable dining experiences.
- Curated and presented menu options and tailored recommendations to enhance dining experiences.
- Managed guest inquiries and expedited order delivery to ensure efficient service during high-demand times.
- Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
- Trained new staff on menu knowledge and service protocols, raising the team's overall performance.
Lead Cook & Trainer
Walt Disney World
Orlando, FL
03.2016 - 10.2020
- Managed high-volume meal preparation, accommodating a variety of dietary preferences for guests.
- Monitored and documented food safety temperatures while upholding strict recipe standards to guarantee quality control.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new employees to enhance skills in food preparation and cooking operations.
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure high-quality food preparation and presentation.
- Developed and implemented new menu items to enhance dining experience for guests.
- Trained and mentored junior cooks on culinary techniques and safety standards.
Kitchen Manager
Brookestone Acres
Columbus, NE
07.2020 - 09.2020
- Oversaw daily kitchen operations and coordinated meal schedules.
- Implemented and upheld food safety protocols to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Monitored and adjusted specialized meal plans to support optimal patient recovery and well-being.
Host, Waitress, Team Lead
Ford’s Garage
Orlando, FL
10.2019 - 03.2020
- Delivered exceptional front-of-house service, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
- Developed and delivered comprehensive training programs to ensure adherence to service expectations and sanitation standards.
- Welcomed and seated guests, ensuring optimal dining experience.
Server
Red Robin
Orlando, FL
05.2019 - 10.2019
- Ensured timely and accurate service execution, contributing to a positive customer experience.
- Collaborated with culinary and bar teams to create innovative menu offerings. Led discussions with kitchen and bar personnel to enhance menu selections.
- Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring a positive dining experience for all guests.
- Trained and mentored new staff on menu knowledge and service protocols.
- Managed multiple tables efficiently during peak hours, maintaining high service standards.
Education
Associate Degree - Culinary Science & Food Service Management
Johnson & Wales University
North Miami05.2016
Skills
- Menu item knowledge
- Dining service efficiency
- Guest relations
- Customer service
- Payment processing
- POS system management
- Food safety compliance
- Stock management
- Shift management
- Peer training support
- Guest engagement
- Work ethic
Certification
- ServSafe Food Handler (knowledge)
- POS Systems: Toast, Micros, Aloha
- Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)
- Inventory & Ordering Systems Experience
Timeline
Server
The Patio Lakeland
02.2024 - 01.2025
Kitchen Supervisor
Whole Foods
10.2021 - 01.2022
Server
Chili’s Grill & Bar
07.2021 - 10.2021
Kitchen Manager
Brookestone Acres
07.2020 - 09.2020
Host, Waitress, Team Lead
Ford’s Garage
10.2019 - 03.2020
Server
Red Robin
05.2019 - 10.2019
Lead Cook & Trainer
Walt Disney World
03.2016 - 10.2020
Associate Degree - Culinary Science & Food Service Management
Johnson & Wales University