Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
Timeline
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Maria Nelly Colon

Maria Nelly Colon

Kissimmee,Florida

Summary

Seasoned Kitchen Manager and Lead Cook with a proven track record at Disney, showcasing exceptional skills in kitchen equipment operation and maintaining rigorous cleaning and sanitation standards. Excelled in fostering team collaboration, significantly reducing food waste, and ensuring top-notch food quality and safety. Renowned for outstanding verbal communication and leadership, consistently achieving and surpassing health inspection requirements.

Talented kitchen leader offer over 3 years of experience in preparing and serving diverse foods. Motivates employees to exceed customer expectations in high-volume settings while maintaining strong quality and cost controls. Service-oriented with good multitasking, safety management and decision-making skills.

Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Kitchen Manager

@ THE DINER
02.2021 - 11.2024
  • Conducted daily checks of refrigerators and freezers to verify proper food storage, container labeling, and surface cleaning.
  • Maintained a clean and safe work environment, adhering to all health department regulations and guidelines.
  • Developed strong vendor relationships for consistent delivery of high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
  • Consistently met or exceeded local health department inspection requirements through diligent adherence to safety protocols and maintaining thorough documentation records.
  • Evaluated employee performance regularly, addressing any skill gaps or growth opportunities through ongoing training initiatives.
  • Achieved rapid ticket times during peak service hours by effectively managing workflow distribution across various stations.
  • Fostered a collaborative working environment among diverse teams of chefs, line cooks, prep cooks, dishwashers, and other support staff.
  • Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and implementing proper food storage techniques.
  • Implemented and maintained food safety and sanitation standards to establish safe handling and preparation of food.

Lead Cook

Disney
11.1995 - 03.2021
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Took food orders from cashiers and cooked items quickly to complete order items together and serve hot.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Prepared ingredients ahead of time to promote efficiency in dish garnishing.
  • Prepared meals for lunch and dining services with average of tables per day.

Lead Cook

Caribe Royale All-suite Hotel & Convention Center
01.2001 - 03.2020
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Took food orders from cashiers and cooked items quickly to complete order items together and serve hot.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
  • Prepared ingredients ahead of time to promote efficiency in dish garnishing.
  • Prepared meals for lunch and dining services with average of tables per day.
  • Streamlined prep work by organizing kitchen stations effectively and training junior staff on best practices for efficient workflow.
  • Oversaw proper storage procedures for perishable items, ensuring freshness and minimizing spoilage risks.
  • Supervised line cooks to monitor food safety and order accuracy.
  • Took over line positions in event of emergency.
  • Taught kitchen staff safety protocols and restaurant standards.
  • Monitored cooks and dishwasher performance and suggested improvements to streamline processes and increase team efficiency.
  • Efficiently handled high-volume orders while maintaining superior food quality through precise execution of cooking methods.
  • Coordinated line cook break schedules to avoid delays during busy periods and maintain adequate coverage.
  • Consistently met or exceeded health code standards by enforcing strict sanitation practices throughout the kitchen area.
  • Delegated jobs within kitchen depending on restaurant traffic and employee skill.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership skills by stepping in as acting kitchen manager during periods of personnel absence or transition.
  • Coordinated with the front-of-house staff to ensure timely dish preparation and delivery for optimal guest experience.
  • Mentored junior staff members in culinary techniques, fostering an environment of continuous learning within the team.
  • Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and developing creative recipes to utilize surplus ingredients.
  • Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
  • Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
  • Inspected freezer and refrigerator daily to check and maintain proper temperatures.
  • Trained and managed kitchen personnel and supervised related culinary activity.
  • Monitored food production to verify quality and consistency.
  • Coordinated with team members to prepare orders on time.
  • Worked closely with front-of-house staff to facilitate excellent customer service.
  • Developed and remained accountable for safety, quality, consistency and adherence to standards.
  • Trained and mentored new staff members in kitchen safety, sanitation and cooking techniques.

Education

High School Diploma -

TEODORO AGUILAR MORRA
YABUCOA
05-1993

Skills

  • Cleaning and sanitation
  • Kitchen equipment operation and maintenance
  • Food plating and presentation
  • Verbal and written communication

Accomplishments

  • Eliminated food waste, saving $ per shift.
  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
  • Supervised team of 20 staff membersm
  • Increased team productivity by implementing key process improvements.
  • Reduced labor costs % by reworking schedules and workflow.

Certification

  • Certified Serv Safe
  • Certified Supervisory Skill Builders
  • Certified Florida notary

Languages

Spanish
Full Professional
English
Full Professional

Timeline

Kitchen Manager

@ THE DINER
02.2021 - 11.2024

Lead Cook

Caribe Royale All-suite Hotel & Convention Center
01.2001 - 03.2020

Lead Cook

Disney
11.1995 - 03.2021

High School Diploma -

TEODORO AGUILAR MORRA
Maria Nelly Colon