Leonard John Novak
Oklahoma City,USA
Summary
Worldly, dedicated, ambitious gourmet skilled in eclectic cuisine with an understanding of flavor profiles. Apprenticed under Chef Kurt Fleischfresser, The Coach House Restaurant OKC.
Professional culinary expert with strong focus on team collaboration and delivering exceptional results. Demonstrates expertise in menu development, kitchen management, and high-quality food preparation. Reliable and adaptable, ensuring consistent excellence in fast-paced, changing environments. Known for leadership, creativity, and maintaining high standards in all culinary operations.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef
Chartwells Higher Education
12.2024 - Current
- Developed and executed seasonal menus reflecting regional cuisine and dietary trends.
- Managed kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Trained and mentored culinary staff to enhance skills and efficiency.
- Collaborated with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients at optimal costs.
- Implemented cost-control measures, reducing food waste while maintaining quality standards.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
Chef/Manager
Flik Hospitality Group
10.2018 - 12.2024
- Oversaw daily kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
- Developed and implemented menu offerings based on seasonal ingredients and customer preferences.
- Trained and mentored culinary staff to enhance skills and improve team performance.
- Managed inventory controls, optimizing food costs while minimizing waste.
Culinary Instructor
Platt College
02.2018 - 10.2018
- Developed and implemented culinary curriculum aligned with industry standards.
- Facilitated hands-on cooking demonstrations to enhance student skills and engagement.
- Mentored students in food safety practices and sanitation protocols.
- Evaluated student performance through assessments and constructive feedback.
- Enhanced classroom environment by integrating technology into culinary lessons.
Executive Chef/Beverage Director
The Viceroy Grille, Ambassador Hotel
01.2014 - 01.2018
- Developed and executed seasonal menus emphasizing local ingredients and culinary trends.
- Led kitchen staff in daily operations, ensuring high standards of food quality and presentation.
- Streamlined food preparation processes to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
- Trained junior chefs on advanced cooking techniques and safety protocols.
- Fostered a positive working environment among kitchen team members that encouraged collaboration, creativity, and open communication.
- Participated in community outreach events such as charity dinners or fundraisers to give back to the local community while promoting brand awareness.
Chef
Café 501, Classen Curve
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Prepared diverse menu items in compliance with food safety standards.
- Collaborated with team to maintain high kitchen efficiency and cleanliness.
- Assisted in inventory management, ensuring adequate stock levels for operations.
- Developed new recipes, enhancing customer satisfaction and menu variety.
Chef de Cuisine
West End Public House
01.2011 - 01.2013
- Developed innovative menu items reflecting seasonal ingredients and local flavors.
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure consistent food quality and presentation standards.
- Streamlined inventory management processes to reduce waste and optimize ingredient usage.
- Trained new culinary team members on kitchen protocols and safety procedures.
Owner/Chef
Feast and Merriment
05.2007 - 10.2010
- Analyzed customer feedback to refine service processes and improve overall satisfaction.
- Created marketing strategies to increase brand visibility and attract new clientele.
- Led community engagement initiatives to strengthen brand presence and build local partnerships.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
Consulting Executive Chef
The Old Croatian
11.2009 - 04.2010
Executive Chef
Uley's Cabin
11.2008 - 04.2010
Head Bread Baker/Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Lamar/Whole Foods Market Bake House
07.2005 - 01.2007
- Developed and refined artisanal bread recipes to enhance product quality and customer satisfaction.
- Supervised baking operations, ensuring adherence to health and safety standards across all processes.
- Trained and mentored junior bakers in techniques and best practices for efficient bread production.
- Implemented inventory management strategies to optimize ingredient usage and reduce waste.
- Conducted quality control checks on finished products, ensuring consistency in flavor, texture, and appearance.
Education
Elementary Education Program
University of Central Oklahoma
OKCPhilosophy Exchange Program
The American University of Paris
Paris, FranceApprentice
The Coach House Restaurant
OKC01.2000
BA - Philosophy/History
MacMurray College
Jacksonville, IL01.1994
Skills
- Achieved high standards in culinary arts through classical training Delivered exceptional results in high-volume production environments Elevated food safety practices with ServSafe certification Streamlined inventory management processes for efficiency Leveraged bilingual skills in English and Spanish to enhance customer interactions Mastered butchery techniques to improve product quality Captivated audiences through engaging public cooking demonstrations Attained Eagle Scout rank, demonstrating commitment to leadership and community service
Timeline
Executive Chef
Chartwells Higher Education
12.2024 - Current
Chef/Manager
Flik Hospitality Group
10.2018 - 12.2024
Culinary Instructor
Platt College
02.2018 - 10.2018
Executive Chef/Beverage Director
The Viceroy Grille, Ambassador Hotel
01.2014 - 01.2018
Chef
Café 501, Classen Curve
01.2013 - 01.2014
Chef de Cuisine
West End Public House
01.2011 - 01.2013
Consulting Executive Chef
The Old Croatian
11.2009 - 04.2010
Executive Chef
Uley's Cabin
11.2008 - 04.2010
Owner/Chef
Feast and Merriment
05.2007 - 10.2010
Head Bread Baker/Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Lamar/Whole Foods Market Bake House
07.2005 - 01.2007
Elementary Education Program
University of Central Oklahoma
Philosophy Exchange Program
The American University of Paris
Apprentice
The Coach House Restaurant
BA - Philosophy/History
MacMurray College