Jason Botz
Flint,MI
Summary
Dynamic professional with a proven track record at Whaley Historic House Museum, excelling in visitor engagement and community partnerships. Leveraged exceptional communication skills to enhance exhibition attendance and successfully supported grant applications, securing vital funding. Adept at digital asset management, fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovative programming and enriches cultural experiences. Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Curatorial Assistant
Whaley Historic House Museum
- Created and enriched online gallery listings to draw international interest and promote works for sale.
- Guided gallery visitors through facility and delivered engaging talks on exhibitions to stimulate interest and facilitate sales.
- Engaged in hands-on training with gallery's curatorial team to advance curatorial skills in real-world setting.
- Photographed and catalogued diverse works to prepare for upcoming exhibitions.
- Monitored inventory of gallery operations supplies and replenished items to maintain required stock.
- Developed gallery operations, customer service and marketing skills to enhance gallery management knowledge.
- Managed artwork inventory through meticulous record-keeping, reducing instances of misplaced or lost pieces.
- Supported grant applications by gathering relevant data on collection items, aiding in the procurement of funding for museum projects.
- Developed engaging exhibit descriptions and promotional materials, attracting increased visitor attendance at museum events.
- Maintained accurate records of artwork acquisitions, ensuring proper documentation and cataloging for future reference.
- Communicated effectively with diverse stakeholders such as donors, artists, vendors, and staff members to ensure successful exhibition outcomes.
- Coordinated with external organizations such as schools, universities, and local businesses to organize group visits and collaborative events – forging strong community connections.
- Provided exceptional customer service by addressing visitor inquiries promptly and knowledgeably during gallery hours.
- Assisted curators in organizing exhibitions, contributing to effective communication of artistic concepts to visitors.
- Facilitated smooth exhibition transitions by coordinating efficient de-installation procedures and storage arrangements for outgoing works.
- Enhanced exhibit quality by researching and selecting artifacts for display in accordance with the museum''s policies.
- Contributed to team efforts in maintaining a clean, organized gallery space suitable for showcasing high-quality exhibits.
- Assisted in planning public programs related to exhibitions, fostering community engagement with the museum''s collections.
- Served as a resource for curators by conducting extensive research on artists, periods, and movements – enriching overall exhibition content.
- Assisted with the development of educational materials for docents and tour groups to provide informative and engaging museum experiences.
- Conducted research on historical context and significance of artifacts, providing valuable insights for exhibition development.
- Oversaw database management tasks including data entry/inputting new acquisitions and updating existing records, enhancing collection organization.
- Moved and handled various types of artwork with exceptional care, following all Type requirements.
- Promoted events and exhibits via social media, email and other communication methods, boosting museum attendance by Number%.
- Actively engaged with all stakeholders during events by tracking attendance, supervising volunteer staff and welcoming guests.
- Assisted in planning, implementation and oversight of Number restoration projects.
- Procured talented individuals, performing artists, and musicians to entertain guests during special events.
- Maintained Type collection records and performed annual inventory of Type collection.
- Wrote and reviewed grant proposals, journal articles, blog posts, institutional reports and Type materials.
- Planned and conducted special research projects in Area of expertise, resulting in development of new exhibits.
Sous Chef
Pine Knob Golf Course and Banquet Center
06.2016 - Current
- Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Planned and directed high-volume food preparation in fast-paced environment.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, resulting in reduced food waste and cost savings for the establishment.
- Collaborated with executive chef to develop innovative menu items, leading to increased guest return rates and positive reviews.
- Played a key role in achieving positive health inspection results by maintaining strict compliance with all relevant guidelines and regulations throughout daily operations.
- Mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative work environment that improved overall team performance.
- Implemented proper cleaning procedures, ensuring a safe and sanitary kitchen workspace compliant with health department regulations.
- Increased kitchen productivity by optimizing workflow processes and delegating tasks appropriately within the team.
- Contributed to successful catering events by coordinating meal preparation and execution, exceeding client expectations on each occasion.
- Ensured consistent quality control of all dishes leaving the kitchen, resulting in a reputation for excellence among patrons.
- Introduced new culinary techniques to the team, elevating the overall skill level and leading to more diverse menu offerings for guests.
- Plated every dish with attractive flair to meet strict restaurant standards and maintain stellar business reputation.
- Participated in menu planning meetings, offering creative input that led to new signature dishes garnering rave reviews from guests.
- Boosted customer satisfaction ratings by consistently delivering high-quality dishes and maintaining strict adherence to food safety standards.
- Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
- Maintained open lines of communication with front-of-house management teams to address any potential issues before they escalated into larger problems affecting overall guest satisfaction levels.
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing guest concerns or special dietary requests, building loyalty among returning clientele.
- Enhanced overall restaurant efficiency by streamlining kitchen operations and implementing effective time management strategies.
- Reduced staff turnover rates through effective communication skills, creating a supportive work atmosphere for all team members.
- Improved efficiency in kitchen, organizing workflow to ensure timely preparation and delivery of dishes.
- Coordinated with front-of-house staff to ensure cohesive dining experience, addressing any customer concerns with prompt and effective solutions.
- Enhanced team performance with regular skill-development workshops and hands-on training.
- Fostered culture of excellence within culinary team, leading by example in maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene.
- Fostered positive working environment, encouraging teamwork and open communication among staff.
- Maintained strict adherence to dietary restrictions, crafting creative alternatives that catered to diverse customer needs.
- Collaborated closely with head chef to develop recipes that significantly increased customer satisfaction.
- Achieved consistency in dish presentation, setting high standards that were replicated across all servings.
- Contributed to menu design, incorporating innovative culinary techniques that attracted wider clientele.
- Delivered exceptional culinary experiences, consistently receiving positive feedback from patrons.
- Led kitchen team during high-volume service times, ensuring seamless operation and guest satisfaction.
- Significantly reduced preparation times by optimizing kitchen layout and equipment placement.
- Monitored food production to verify quality and consistency.
- Assisted with menu development and planning.
- Trained and mentored new staff members in kitchen safety, sanitation and cooking techniques.
- Worked closely with front-of-house staff to facilitate excellent customer service.
- Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
- Utilized culinary techniques to create visually appealing dishes.
- Coordinated with team members to prepare orders on time.
- Disciplined and dedicated to meeting high-quality standards.
- Participated in food tastings and taste tests.
- Set up and broke down kitchen for service.
- Evaluated food products to verify freshness and quality.
- Developed and remained accountable for safety, quality, consistency and adherence to standards.
- Implemented food cost and waste reduction initiatives to save money.
- Modified recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.
- Developed new recipes and flavor combinations to enhance customer dining experience.
Executive Chef
Gerhart's
- Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
- Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
- Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
- Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
- Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
- Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
- Delivered excellent food quality and maximized customer satisfaction by preparing meals according to customer requests.
- Conducted regular evaluations of kitchen equipment and appliances, ensuring proper maintenance and timely replacement to maintain optimal operational efficiency.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating competitive prices on ingredients and supplies.
- Maximized profitability by effectively managing food costs through portion control and minimizing waste.
- Created visually appealing plate presentations, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
- Managed kitchen staff for efficient food production, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality dishes.
- Requisitioned food, selected and developed recipes and standardized production recipes for consistent quality.
- Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
- Developed custom menus for clients with specific dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring their utmost satisfaction during their dining experience.
- Spearheaded kitchen renovations to optimize workflow efficiency without compromising quality or safety standards.
- Streamlined kitchen operations with effective inventory management and cost controls.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless dining experiences for guests.
- Implemented staff training programs to improve culinary skills, teamwork, and overall productivity.
- Designed seasonal menus showcasing fresh local ingredients, supporting sustainable agriculture practices within the community.
- Implemented special events promotions such as theme nights or cooking demonstrations to attract new clientele and boost sales revenues.
- Fostered a positive working environment among kitchen team members that encouraged collaboration, creativity, and open communication.
- Coordinated employee schedules and developed staff teams to boost productivity.
- Collaborated with other Executive Chefs within the company network to share best practices and develop new menu items that showcased each property''s unique offerings.
- Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
- Improved employee retention rates through focused coaching and performance evaluations for career growth opportunities.
- Enhanced guest satisfaction ratings by consistently delivering exceptional service in a high-pressure environment.
- Generated employee schedules and work assignments and determined appropriate compensation rates.
- Collaborated with front of house to ensure cohesive and superior guest experience.
- Achieved significant cost reductions by negotiating with suppliers and optimizing inventory management.
- Streamlined kitchen processes for improved efficiency and faster service times.
- Developed and implemented waste reduction program, significantly lowering operational costs.
- Maintained stringent health and safety standards, passing all inspections with high marks.
- Mentored junior chefs, enhancing team skills and fostering culture of continuous improvement.
- Led kitchen operations, ensuring seamless service during high-volume periods.
- Orchestrated catering events for high-profile clients, consistently receiving commendable feedback.
- Crafted unique dishes that significantly increased restaurant reputation and customer base.
- Fostered partnerships with local farmers, securing premium ingredients and supporting community.
- Enhanced presentation techniques, contributing to visually appealing menu that attracted wider audience.
- Managed budgeting and financial planning to ensure profitability and sustainable growth.
- Conducted market research to keep menu fresh and aligned with current culinary trends.
- Elevated dining experience and customer satisfaction by introducing innovative seasonal menus.
- Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
- Implemented food cost and waste reduction initiatives to save money.
- Trained and mentored new staff members in kitchen safety, sanitation and cooking techniques.
- Trained and managed kitchen personnel and supervised related culinary activity.
- Developed close relationships with suppliers to source best ingredients.
- Evaluated food products to verify freshness and quality.
- Assisted with menu development and planning.
- Developed new recipes and flavor combinations to enhance customer dining experience.
- Monitored food production to verify quality and consistency.
- Developed and remained accountable for safety, quality, consistency and adherence to standards.
- Disciplined and dedicated to meeting high-quality standards.
- Modified recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.
- Set up and broke down kitchen for service.
- Worked closely with front-of-house staff to facilitate excellent customer service.
- Utilized culinary techniques to create visually appealing dishes.
- Coordinated with team members to prepare orders on time.
- Participated in food tastings and taste tests.
Interim Executive Director
Whaley Historic House Museum
02.2017 - 07.2017
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Guided staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Forge strong relationships with board members, providing regular updates on organizational progress and soliciting their expertise when needed.
- Built relationships with donors, government officials and other organizations to secure funding and support for organization.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms while adhering to budgetary constraints.
- Represented organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
- Exercised appropriate cost control to meet budget restrictions and maximize profitability.
- Collaborated with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Developed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to expand the organization''s reach and influence.
- Strengthened internal communication channels to facilitate cross-functional collaboration and decisionmaking.
- Aligned department vision, goals, and objectives with company strategy to achieve consistently high results.
- Increased organizational efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing new systems.
- Evaluated program outcomes using data-driven metrics, identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted interventions.
- Advocated for policy changes at both local and national levels to further support the organization''s goals and objectives.
- Set organizational goals and objectives to guide and direct company focus and achieve mission fulfillment.
- Developed and implemented organizational strategies to achieve set goals and objectives and secured long-term success.
- Spearheaded new program initiatives to address unmet community needs and advance the organization''s mission.
- Streamlined operations and reduced costs with implementation of efficient financial management systems.
- Elevated event attendance and fundraising outcomes by organizing high-profile charity events.
- Fostered culture of continuous improvement, introducing regular feedback mechanisms for staff and volunteers.
- Maximized donor satisfaction and retention through personalized acknowledgment and engagement strategies.
- Spearheaded development and launch of user-friendly organizational website, increasing online engagement.
- Led organization through significant transition period, maintaining stability and focus on strategic goals.
- Represented organization at industry conferences and events.
- Established and maintained strong relationships with customers, vendors and strategic partners.
- Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
- Cultivated company-wide culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Devised and presented business plans and forecasts to board of directors.
- Created succession plans to provide continuity of operations during leadership transitions.
- Oversaw business-wide changes to modernize procedures and organization.
- Communicated business performance, forecasts and strategies to investors and shareholders.
- Analyzed industry trends and tracked competitor activities to inform decision making.
- Directed technological improvements, reducing waste and business bottlenecks.
- Oversaw divisional marketing, advertising and new product development.
Education
Bachelor Of Education - Education
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MIBachelor Of Arts - History
University of Michigan, Flint
Flint, MI05.2016
Associates In Liberal Studies -
Charles Stewart Mott Community College
Flint, MI05.2014
Associate Of General Studies -
Charles Stewart Mott Community College
Flint, MI05.2014
Associate Of Occupational Studies - Culinary Arts
Florida Culinary Institute
West Palm Beach, FL05.2003
Skills
- Visitor engagement
- Donor relations
- Art handling
- Multimedia production
- Cataloguing artworks
- Social media promotion
- Community partnerships
- Fundraising strategies
- Membership development
- Digital asset management
- Public programming
- Gallery installation
- Educational outreach
- Interpretive writing
- Curatorial vision
- Collection management
- Condition reporting
- Volunteer supervision
- Exhibition planning
- Collections storage
- Educational programming
- Public engagement
- Oral communication
- Creative direction
- Museum collections
- Exhibit preparation
- Fundraising
- Budgeting and finance
- Public lecturing
- Mixed media
- Digital archiving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking
- Multitasking Abilities
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
- Active listening
- Effective communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Decision-making
- Collaborative teamwork
- Detail-oriented
- Public relations
- Task prioritization
- Self motivation
- Interpersonal skills
- Analytical thinking
- Goal setting
- Professionalism
- Interpersonal communication
- Public speaking
- Strategic planning
- Time management abilities
- Continuous improvement
- Adaptability
- Written communication
- Project management
- Collection development
- Cultural sensitivity
- Professional demeanor
- Problem-solving aptitude
- Event planning
- Social media management
- Vendor relations
- Community outreach
- Resource management
- Historical research
- Analytical skills
- Volunteer coordination
- Budget administration
- Grant proposal writing
- Visitor services
- Tour leadership
- Research project management
- Collection building
- Material analysis
Timeline
Interim Executive Director
Whaley Historic House Museum
02.2017 - 07.2017
Sous Chef
Pine Knob Golf Course and Banquet Center
06.2016 - Current
Curatorial Assistant
Whaley Historic House Museum
Executive Chef
Gerhart's
Bachelor Of Education - Education
University of Michigan
Bachelor Of Arts - History
University of Michigan, Flint
Associates In Liberal Studies -
Charles Stewart Mott Community College
Associate Of General Studies -
Charles Stewart Mott Community College
Associate Of Occupational Studies - Culinary Arts
Florida Culinary Institute
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