Lori Cavuoti
North Haven,CT
Summary
I went to Culinary School because I had a passion for food. I started out as sous chef then quickly to head chef in numerous restaurants. Opened up Tastebuds Deli & Specialty Foods. After I sold that I became Culinary Director for Atria then became a Specialist then lastly became a Senior Director at Atria Riverdale which was a kosher community.. Accomplished in planning, preparing and serving balanced meals under strict deadlines and budget limitations. Focused on proper food handling, safety procedures and maintaining clean food service and dining environment.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Culinary Director
Atria Senior Living
11.2011 - 08.2023
- Enhanced dining experiences by developing innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs and preferences.
- Streamlined kitchen operations for improved efficiency through effective staff training, equipment upgrades, and process improvements.
- Increased customer satisfaction with high-quality dishes prepared consistently using fresh ingredients and creative presentations.
- Managed food costs by implementing inventory control measures, reducing waste, and negotiating with suppliers for better pricing.
- Collaborated closely with other department heads to ensure seamless coordination of events, leading to successful outcomes for all involved parties.
- Developed a strong culinary team through consistent coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluations resulting in excellent employee retention rates.
- Implemented food safety protocols that maintained a clean and compliant kitchen environment while meeting local health department requirements.
- Designed seasonal menu offerings that showcased fresh produce from regional suppliers while maintaining an attractive profit margin on each dish served.
- Monitored food preparation processes to ensure adherence to standardized recipes and presentation guidelines for a consistent dining experience across all outlets.
- Improved kitchen morale by fostering a positive work environment where team members felt valued and supported in their professional growth opportunities.
- Oversaw staff scheduling processes that ensured adequate coverage during peak periods without compromising service standards or employee job satisfaction levels.
- Championed quality improvement initiatives by regularly reviewing customer feedback, addressing concerns, and implementing necessary changes to exceed expectations.
- Collaborated with marketing teams on promotional campaigns that highlighted signature dishes or special events, driving increased traffic and revenue for the business.
- Maintained a safe and productive work environment by enforcing proper food handling practices, sanitation guidelines, and workplace safety protocols at all times.
- Managed staff schedules and maintained adequate coverage for all shifts.
- Developed menus and meal plans which met personnel needs, utilizing available supplies and within budget restrictions.
- Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
- Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
Education
High School Diploma -
Hamden High School
Hamden, CT05.1985
Skills
- Team Leadership
- Culinary Techniques
- Allergy Accommodations
- Multitasking Abilities
- Sanitation Practices
- Budgeting and Cost Control
- Menu Development
- Food Presentation
- Kitchen Management
- Inventory Management
- Customer Service
- Food Safety Standards
- Staff Training
- Problem Solving
- Conflict Resolution
- Delivery Inspections
- Food and Beverage Operations
- Estimating and Ordering Inventory
- Workstation Maintenance
- Guest Interaction
- Dining Facility Management
- Employee Scheduling
- Cleaning and Sanitizing
- Portion Control
- Employee Supervision
- Scheduling Staff
- Problem-Solving
- ServSafe Food Manager
- Back of House Management
Timeline
Senior Culinary Director
Atria Senior Living
11.2011 - 08.2023
High School Diploma -
Hamden High School