Laura Orr
Chaffee,MO
Summary
Dynamic Food Service Director with a proven track record at Kelso C-7 School District, excelling in menu planning and vendor evaluation. Expert in compliance regulations and food safety protocols, I successfully implemented waste reduction strategies, enhancing operational efficiency and team performance. Committed to delivering nutritious meals that meet diverse dietary needs.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Food Service Director/Kitchen Cook
Kelso C-7 School District
Benton, Missouri
08.1988 - 05.2025
- Oversaw daily food service operations for Kelso C-7 School District.
- Managed menu planning and nutritional standards for student meals.
- Supervised kitchen staff and ensured adherence to safety protocols.
- Coordinated supply inventory and procurement for food service programs.
- Developed training programs for staff in food preparation techniques.
- Evaluated vendor performance and negotiated contracts for food supplies.
- Implemented waste reduction strategies in meal preparation processes.
- Collaborated with school administration on dietary needs and requirements.
- Ensured compliance with local health codes and other applicable regulations.
- Supervised the daily operations of the kitchen, cafeteria, and catering services.
- Developed and implemented strategies to enhance team performance, improve processes and boost results.
- Assisted in menu planning and recipe development according to customer preferences.
- Performed continuous reviews of operations in order to meet needs, control costs and optimize procedures for maximum customer satisfaction.
- Monitored inventory levels to ensure that adequate supplies were available at all times.
- Conducted regular inspections of kitchen equipment to maintain a safe work environment.
- Analyzed financial statements regularly to identify areas of improvement within the organization.
- Communicated effectively with executive management regarding budgeting decisions or policy changes.
- Implemented best practices for food preparation techniques, storage methods, and portion control.
- Trained new employees to perform duties.
- Inspected dining and serving areas for cleanliness and proper setup.
- Assisted staff by serving food and beverages or bussing tables.
- Baked breads, cakes, pies and other pastries as required by the chef.
- Performed workstation prep prior to shift start.
- Made meals in accordance with company standards and requirements.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Physical Education/Psychology
College of The Ozarks
Branson, MO12-1982
Skills
- Menu planning
- Nutritional standards
- Vendor evaluation
- Inventory management
- Compliance regulations
- Food safety protocols
Accomplishments
- Outstanding Rural Support Staff from the Missouri Association of Rural Education 2019
- Heart of the Falcon from the Kelso C-7 School District 2024
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Food Service Director/Kitchen Cook
Kelso C-7 School District
08.1988 - 05.2025
Bachelor of Science - Physical Education/Psychology
College of The Ozarks
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