Kim Hutchinson
SEATTLE
Summary
Goal-oriented Cheese Specialist skilled in inventory management, staff training, and quality assurance. Successfully developed promotional displays and optimized stock levels, contributing to improved sales and customer engagement. Committed to fostering teamwork and adherence to food safety standards.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Cheese Specialist
PCC Community Markets
Edmonds, WA
09.2021 - Current
- Curated diverse cheese selection to enhance customer experience and satisfaction.
- Educated customers on cheese pairings, sourcing, and preparation techniques.
- Conducted regular inventory assessments to maintain optimal stock levels.
- Achievement of high net margin and low shrink while driving sales.
- Developed promotional displays to increase product visibility and sales engagement.
- Trained new employees on best practices related to cheese handling, cutting techniques, sanitation procedures, and customer service expectations.
- Managed the ordering process, anticipating seasonal fluctuations in demand and adjusting stock levels accordingly for optimal inventory management.
Cheese Specialist
Metropolitan Market
Seattle, WA
01.2020 - 09.2021
- Implemented process improvements for efficient cheese handling and storage procedures.
- Assisted in the creation of visually appealing cheese displays, drawing customer attention and increasing sales.
- Monitored inventory levels to order new supplies and maintain consistent stock.
- Conducted regular inventory assessments to maintain optimal stock levels.
- Trained new employees on best practices related to cheese handling, cutting techniques, sanitation procedures, and customer service expectations.
Cheese Specialist/Bakery Supervisor
New Seasons Market
Seattle, WA
03.2018 - 12.2019
- Conducted regular inventory assessments to ensure accurate stock levels and minimize waste.
- Led in-store tastings and events to promote new products and engage the community effectively.
- Coordinated with other departments, such as deli or bakery, to create cross-promotional opportunities and maximize overall sales potential.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with industry trends and best practices in cheesemongering.
Specialty Associate Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Inc
Seattle, WA
08.2016 - 03.2018
- Led team in daily operations, ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards.
- Mentored associates on product knowledge, enhancing customer service and sales effectiveness.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, improving accuracy of stock levels and replenishment schedules.
- Developed training materials for new team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Created an inclusive working environment, promoting open communication and collaboration among team members.
- Supported store manager in achieving financial targets by identifying areas for cost reduction or revenue growth opportunities.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, resulting in improved stock accuracy and reduced waste.
Assistant Bakery Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Inc
Seattle, WA
03.2012 - 08.2016
- Assisted in daily operations, ensuring adherence to food safety and quality standards.
- Supported team leader in training and mentoring new staff on bakery processes.
- Coordinated inventory management, optimizing stock levels for efficient product availability.
- Implemented process improvements, enhancing workflow efficiency within the bakery department.
- Monitored production schedules, ensuring timely preparation of fresh baked goods.
- Led team meetings to address operational challenges and promote a positive work environment.
- Maximized productivity through effective delegation of tasks and setting clear expectations for all team members.
- Reduced waste by implementing efficient production techniques and monitoring product freshness daily.
Team Member
Whole Foods Market Inc
New Orleans, LA
01.2006 - 03.2012
- Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and product knowledge to improve team performance.
- Monitored quality of perishable items and ensured compliance with health standards for food safety.
- Actively participated in team meetings to share insights and strategies for enhancing operational efficiency.
- Kept work areas clean, organized, and safe to promote efficiency and team safety.
- Worked scheduled shifts and remained available to work during coworker absences, holidays, and busy periods.
- Developed strong cooperative relationships with coworkers and managers.
- Maintained productive, efficient approach to all tasks.
- Developed strong customer service and product knowledge skills to enhance individual and team performance.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Studio Arts
University of New Orleans
New Orleans, LASkills
- Food safety
- Cutting techniques
- Sanitation practices
- Product presentation
- Payroll processing
- Inventory control
- Merchandising displays
- ServSafe certification
- Ordering procedures
- Shrink control
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Customer assistance
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of up to 12 staff members.
- Achieved up to 40% YOY sales increases by reformatting entire departments with purchasing accuracy and effective merchandising.
- Achieved building customer loyalty by ordering consistently and having clear, transparent communication with my customers.
- Working on multiple high grossing teams in the Seattle area alongside titans in the industry has been an unparalleled educational experience.
Timeline
Cheese Specialist
PCC Community Markets
09.2021 - Current
Cheese Specialist
Metropolitan Market
01.2020 - 09.2021
Cheese Specialist/Bakery Supervisor
New Seasons Market
03.2018 - 12.2019
Specialty Associate Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Inc
08.2016 - 03.2018
Assistant Bakery Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Inc
03.2012 - 08.2016
Team Member
Whole Foods Market Inc
01.2006 - 03.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Studio Arts
University of New Orleans