Jason DeBriere
Maplewood
Summary
Professional operations leader with consistent track record in optimizing processes and driving impactful results. Proven ability to lead teams, implement strategic initiatives, and adapt to changing environments with ease. Skilled in project management, process improvement, and resource allocation. Known for effective collaboration and delivering dependable outcomes.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Operations/Product Development
Ala Grande Fine Foods/The Flying Meatballs
10.2023 - Current
- Monitored budget and utilized operational resources.
- Developed and executed strategic plans to achieve organizational goals and drive sustainable growth.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the organization by enforcing compliance with established regulations, policies, procedures, as well as conducting regular audits
- Identified opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement, implementing changes that resulted in significant savings.
- Oversaw day-to-day production activities in accordance with business objectives.
- Worked collaboratively with functional leaders to implement new procedures and corrective actions to improve quality.
- Negotiated with vendors, suppliers and other stakeholders to acquire mutually beneficial contracts and agreement.
- Launched successful initiative to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up staff to focus on strategic projects and value-added activities.
- Oversaw procurement of raw materials, including sourcing and negotiating contracts with vendors.
- Managed Inventory levels to meet production demand while minimizing cost.
- Regularly inspect equipment, food and production process to identify potential sources of conatamination.
Director of Research & Development
Vista Hermosa Products/Tacombi
02.2019 - 09.2023
- Handled all recipe development from benchtop to scaled manufacturing
- Successfully scaled and launched 7 retail products
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers to secure favorable terms for raw materials procurement, reducing overall production costs.
- Optimized production process flow to drive down overhead costs
- Created SOP's for all processes and recipes
- Partnered with sales, strategy and business development to identify new product opportunities.
- Trained personnel in equipment maintenance and enforced participation in exercises focused on developing key skills.
- Launched quality assurance practices for each phase of development, including food safety plan, food defense plan and HACCP plan.
- Spearheaded efforts to obtain necessary certifications for new products, facilitating smooth market entry including USDA organic, Kosher and nonGMO project verified
- Maintained record keeping on all regulatory matters, including food safety, FDA and sanitation SSOP's.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement across R&D and operations to optimize growth while maintaining costs.
Culinary Director
Tacombi Holdings
02.2014 - 01.2019
- Monitored food preparation processes to ensure adherence to standardized recipes and presentation guidelines for a consistent dining experience across all outlets.
- Designed seasonal menu offerings that showcased fresh produce from regional suppliers while maintaining an attractive profit margin on each dish served.
- Maintained a safe and productive work environment by enforcing proper food handling practices, sanitation guidelines, and workplace safety protocols at all times.
- Developed a strong culinary team through consistent coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluations resulting in excellent employee retention rates.
- Streamlined kitchen operations for improved efficiency through effective staff training, equipment upgrades, and process improvements.
- Introduced new culinary techniques and equipment to the kitchen team, elevating the overall skill set and capabilities of staff members.
- Managed food costs by implementing inventory control measures, reducing waste, and negotiating with suppliers for better pricing.
- Developed menus and meal plans which met personnel needs, utilizing available supplies and within budget restrictions.
- Led menu planning sessions, incorporating feedback from team members to foster sense of ownership and creativity.
- Conducted comprehensive staff training on culinary techniques and customer service, elevating overall team performance.
- Took inventory of supplies and maintained accurate stock records to minimize losses and support supply ordering.
- Established food preparation procedures and guidelines to promote meal consistency and quality.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and adjust purchasing decisions accordingly.
- Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
- Trained staff on proper cooking procedures as well as safety regulations and productivity strategies.
- Kept facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations, alleviating potentially heavy fines.
- Developed unique events and special promotions to drive sales.
- Negotiated with suppliers for better pricing, achieving significant reductions in kitchen expenses.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA03.1997
Skills
- Operational Efficiency
- Proficient in MS, ERP systems & Google Suite
- Operations Oversight
- Process Improvement
- Quality Assurance
- Resource Allocation
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Staff training/development
- P&L Management
- Budget Control
- Inventory Control
Certification
HACCP Certification - Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points
PCQI Certification - Food Safety and Preventative Controls for Human Food
Additional Information
Possessing a deep understanding of complex supply chains and a strategic mindset, I have successfully implemented innovative solutions to enhance supply chain visibility, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. My expertise in procurement, logistics, inventory management coupled with my strong leadership skills make me a valuable asset to any organization seeking to elevate its supply chain performance.
Timeline
Director of Operations/Product Development
Ala Grande Fine Foods/The Flying Meatballs
10.2023 - Current
Director of Research & Development
Vista Hermosa Products/Tacombi
02.2019 - 09.2023
Culinary Director
Tacombi Holdings
02.2014 - 01.2019
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
HACCP Certification - Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points
PCQI Certification - Food Safety and Preventative Controls for Human Food
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