Mark McDonald
Rancho Mirage,CA
Summary
- High-performing Chef offering 25 years of restaurant experience. Excellent communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Talent for building streamlined, cohesive teams.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef, Owner, Food and Beverage Manager
Old Vine Cafe, LLC
Costa Mesa
03.2007 - 02.2024
- Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
- Educated kitchen staff for efficient food production, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality dishes.
- Streamlined kitchen operations with effective inventory management and cost controls.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
- Created and maintained food and wine training programs promoting continued food, wine, and spirit education.
- Manged all catering and private events including: client correspondence, International Menu Planning, Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten Free Menu Planning, Event Chef, Event Captain.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating competitive prices on ingredients and supplies.
- Implemented staff training programs to improve culinary skills, teamwork, and overall productivity.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless dining experiences for guests.
- Created visually appealing plate presentations, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
- Maximized profitability by effectively managing food costs through portion control and minimizing waste.
- Expanded catering services through strategic marketing efforts, increasing event bookings and revenue streams.
- Designed seasonal menus showcasing fresh local ingredients, supporting sustainable agriculture practices within the community.
- Improved employee retention rates through focused coaching and performance evaluations for career growth opportunities.
Tour Director/ Culinary Instructor
Italian Culinary Institute, Italy
Italy
03.2010 - 09.2023
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalized and engaging tour experiences.
- Developed custom itineraries for various clientele, resulting in a high rate of repeat business.
- Implemented efficient check-in processes, streamlining operations and reducing wait times.
- Facilitated group bonding activities, fostering an enjoyable atmosphere for all participants.
- Addressed client concerns promptly, maintaining professional relationships and positive feedback.
- Coordinated with local vendors to secure the best pricing and services for clients'' needs.
- Delivered accurate historical information through engaging storytelling techniques, enriching guests'' cultural understanding.
- Trained new tour directors on company protocols, contributing to a knowledgeable team of professionals.
- Provided assistance during emergencies or unexpected situations, ensuring guest safety and comfort at all times.
- Maintained strong relationships with venue staff, enhancing the overall quality of tours offered.
- Conducted thorough research on destinations, leading to more informed and captivating presentations.
Education
Master of Italian Cuisine Certification - Advanced Culinary Arts
Italian Culinary Institute, Italy (ICI)
Copanello, CZ, Italy04.2006
Culinary Certificate - Culinary Arts
Laguna Culinary Arts
Laguna Beach, CA06.2003
Skills
- Performance Assessments
- BOH and FOH Operations
- Banquets and catering
- Food plating and presentation
- Hiring, Training, and Development
- Restaurant Operations
- Team Leadership
- Safe Food Handling
- Sanitation Guidelines
- Dietary Restrictions
- Culinary Instructor
Timeline
Tour Director/ Culinary Instructor
Italian Culinary Institute, Italy
03.2010 - 09.2023
Executive Chef, Owner, Food and Beverage Manager
Old Vine Cafe, LLC
03.2007 - 02.2024
Master of Italian Cuisine Certification - Advanced Culinary Arts
Italian Culinary Institute, Italy (ICI)
Culinary Certificate - Culinary Arts
Laguna Culinary Arts