Justin Savage
Reading,PA
Summary
Driven and humble leader with strong problem-solving and customer service skills. Dedicated to providing highest level of service to customers and creating pleasant work environment for staff. Knowledgeable in food safety and sanitation protocols. Trained and promoted from entry level cooks assistant and dishwasher position through the ranks of Cook, Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine, Purchasing Manager and Culinary Manager
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Culinary Manager
The Highlands At Wyomissing
Wyomissing PA
2022 - Current
- Reduce health risks and safety hazards by preparing products consistently while creating cleaning schedules, restocking items and sanitizing equipment to adhere to health department standards.
- Handle escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
- Oversee food preparation and monitor safety protocols.
- Keep facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations, alleviating potential fines.
- Lowered restaurant costs by 22% through creative ingredient sourcing and food waste efficiency.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and adjust purchasing decisions accordingly.
- Schedule and manage kitchen staff of 25 people.
- Created a culture accountability, while increasing staff retention, satisfaction and positivity.
Chef De Cuisine
The Highlands at Wyomissing
Wyomissing, PA
2018 - 02.2020
- Developed innovative seasonal menus to enhance dining experience and incorporate local ingredients.
- Supervised kitchen staff, ensuring consistent food quality and adherence to safety standards.
- Streamlined kitchen operations, improving efficiency in food preparation and service delivery.
- Implemented training programs for new chefs, fostering skill development and teamwork.
- Led special events catering, coordinating logistics and menu execution for large gatherings successfully.
- Optimized kitchen workflow by delegating tasks according to individual strengths, resulting in faster ticket times during peak hours.
- Maintained high levels of sanitation and cleanliness, adhering to strict health code regulations and ensuring a safe working environment.
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by creating innovative and visually appealing dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
- Implemented creative daily specials to showcase unique ingredients or techniques while maintaining consistent customer favorites.
Purchasing and Utility Manager
The Highlands at Wyomissing
Wyomissing, PA
02.2020 - 2021
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing supply chain processes to reduce waste and improve cost efficiency.
- Collaborated with suppliers to negotiate pricing and quality standards, ensuring high-quality ingredient sourcing.
- Streamlined kitchen processes to maximize productivity during peak service hours while maintaining food quality.
- Conducted regular inspections of kitchen equipment, ensuring compliance with health regulations and operational standards.
- Maintained a clean and safe work environment, adhering to all health department regulations and guidelines.
- Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
- Conducted daily checks of refrigerators and freezers to verify proper food storage, container labeling, and surface cleaning.
Dishwasher
The Highlands at Wyomissing
Wyomissing, PA
07.2009 - 2010
- Operated dishwashing equipment to maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards.
- Sorted and organized dishes, utensils, and kitchenware for efficient workflow.
- Assisted kitchen staff by providing clean supplies promptly to support meal preparation.
- Maintained compliance with health and safety regulations during dishwashing processes.
Production Manager
The Highlands at Wyomissing
Wyomissing, PA
2021 - 2022
- Oversaw daily production operations, ensuring adherence to quality standards and safety protocols.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced production efficiency and reduced downtime.
- Trained and mentored junior staff in operational best practices and safety compliance.
- Coordinated cross-departmental communication to streamline workflow and resolve production issues.
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing material usage while minimizing waste and costs.
- Developed training programs to enhance team skills and improve overall productivity.
- Analyzed production data to identify trends and implement corrective actions as needed.
- Collaborated with upper management on strategic initiatives to drive operational excellence and innovation.
Sous Chef
The Highlands at Wyomissing
Wyomissing, PA
2013 - 2018
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure high-quality food preparation and presentation.
- Collaborated with executive chef to develop seasonal menus reflecting local ingredients.
- Streamlined food inventory processes, minimizing waste and optimizing supply usage.
- Trained new staff in culinary techniques and safety protocols, enhancing team efficiency.
- Mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative work environment that improved overall team performance.
- Boosted customer satisfaction ratings by consistently delivering high-quality dishes and maintaining strict adherence to food safety standards.
- 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.
- Reduced staff turnover rates through effective communication skills, creating a supportive work atmosphere for all team members.
- Fostered culture of excellence within culinary team, leading by example in maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene.
- Contributed to menu design, incorporating innovative culinary techniques that attracted wider clientele.
Cook
The Highlands at Wyomissing
Wyomissing, PA
2010 - 2013
- Prepared and cooked high-quality meals following standardized recipes.
- Managed food safety and sanitation practices to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
- Prepared meals efficiently under time constraints for timely service during peak hours.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills, managing multiple orders simultaneously without sacrificing quality or presentation.
Education
High School Diploma -
Governor Mifflin
Shillington PA06-2010
Skills
- Recipe Development
- Customer Needs Assessments
- Standard Operating Procedures Proficient
- Cooking Techniques
- Optimal Inventory Levels
- Health Code Requirements
- Safe Food Handling Practices
- Chef Training Knowledge
- Food Waste Minimization Expertise
- Budgeting Mastery
- Cost Efficiency
- Employee Performance Evaluations
- Disciplinary Action
Timeline
Purchasing and Utility Manager
The Highlands at Wyomissing
02.2020 - 2021
Dishwasher
The Highlands at Wyomissing
07.2009 - 2010
Culinary Manager
The Highlands At Wyomissing
2022 - Current
Chef De Cuisine
The Highlands at Wyomissing
2018 - 02.2020
Production Manager
The Highlands at Wyomissing
2021 - 2022
Sous Chef
The Highlands at Wyomissing
2013 - 2018
Cook
The Highlands at Wyomissing
2010 - 2013
High School Diploma -
Governor Mifflin