Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

LaFonda Hawkins

Addis,Louisiana

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Kitchen Manager

BBQ GUYS
04.2019 - 01.2024
  • Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and implementing proper food storage techniques.
  • Maintained a clean and safe work environment, adhering to all health department regulations and guidelines.
  • Developed creative daily specials using seasonal ingredients, incorporating fresh flavors into the menu rotation while minimizing costs associated with excess inventory stockpiling.
  • Participated in community outreach efforts, including coordinating with local food banks to donate surplus ingredients and reduce waste.
  • Conducted daily checks of refrigerators and freezers to verify proper food storage, container labeling, and surface cleaning.
  • Inspected stock to identify shortages, replenish supply and maintain consistent inventory.
  • Checked and tested foods to verify quality and temperature.
  • Implemented and maintained food safety and sanitation standards to establish safe handling and preparation of food.
  • Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
  • Calculated prices of ingredients to monitor food costs and control expenses.
  • Designed and maintained menus to offer variety of high quality and consistency of dishes.
  • Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.

Cook

Baton Rouge General Hospital
10.2017 - 04.2019
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality, visually appealing dishes.
  • Reduced food waste significantly by implementing proper portion control and storage techniques.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations with effective communication and collaboration among team members.
  • Improved menu offerings, incorporating seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking methods.
  • Maintained a clean and sanitary workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Prepared meals efficiently under time constraints for timely service during peak hours.
  • Contributed to positive guest experiences by accommodating special dietary needs and requests.

Lead Cook

Belle Of Baton Rouge Casino And Hotel
04.2005 - 10.2015
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining cooking processes and implementing time-saving techniques.
  • Efficiently handled high-volume orders while maintaining superior food quality through precise execution of cooking methods.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership skills by stepping in as acting kitchen manager during periods of personnel absence or transition.
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Prepared ingredients ahead of time to promote efficiency in dish garnishing.
  • Inspected freezer and refrigerator daily to check and maintain proper temperatures.
  • Inspected kitchens to observe food preparation quality and service, food appearance, and cleanliness of production and service areas.
  • Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
  • Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
  • Developed recipes, portion specifications, and standard preparation procedures for all dishes.

Education

Associate In Engineering Technology - Instrumentation

River Parishes Community College
Plaquemine, LA

Diploma - General Studies

Capitol High School
Baton Rouge, LA
05.1995

Skills

  • Food Safety
  • Scheduling
  • Product Rotation
  • Inventory Management
  • Menu Development
  • Purchasing
  • Supply Ordering
  • Food Preparations
  • Expediting Ordero
  • Ordering Supplies
  • ServSafe Certification
  • Cleaning and Sanitation
  • Sanitation Standards
  • Order Delivery Practices
  • Sanitation

Certification

ServSafe Certification

Leadership Skills For Supervisors

Timeline

Kitchen Manager

BBQ GUYS
04.2019 - 01.2024

Cook

Baton Rouge General Hospital
10.2017 - 04.2019

Lead Cook

Belle Of Baton Rouge Casino And Hotel
04.2005 - 10.2015

Associate In Engineering Technology - Instrumentation

River Parishes Community College

Diploma - General Studies

Capitol High School
LaFonda Hawkins