McKena Gonzales
Phoenix,AZ
Summary
Accomplished Executive Chef with a proven track record at The Whining Pig Concepts, enhancing menu quality and customer satisfaction. Expert in kitchen staff management and menu planning, I excel in vendor relationship management and team leadership, achieving a significant boost in productivity and operational efficiency. Motivated professional offering proficiency combined with strong mathematical and analytical thinking skills. Personable team player with exceptional customer service abilities. Fast learner and committed to continuous, self-directed learning.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef
The Whining Pig Concepts
04.2020 - 01.2024
- Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
- Obtained fresh, local ingredients to improve dish flavors and limit grocery costs.
- Requisitioned food, selected and developed recipes and standardized production recipes for consistent quality.
- Planned promotional menu additions based on seasonal pricing and product availability.
- Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
- Delivered excellent food quality and maximized customer satisfaction by preparing meals according to customer requests.
- Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
- Generated employee schedules and work assignments and determined appropriate compensation rates.
- Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
- Interacted with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels.
- Coordinated employee schedules and developed staff teams to boost productivity.
Saute Cook/ Banquet Cook
The Country Club At DC Ranch
02.2016 - 04.2020
- Performed thorough quality checks of food plating and presentation.
- Prepared sauces and garnishes to complement sauteed menu items.
- Organized server tickets to expedite food orders.
- Set up and maintained saute station to facilitate kitchen operations.
- Liaised with sous chef throughout shift to obtain food prep and kitchen management instructions.
- Kept kitchen clean and organized by performing daily maintenance tasks.
- Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines while preparing and serving food.
Maitre D'
Maggianos Little Italy
08.2015 - 02.2016
- Served as leader of FOH team by assigning duties, work stations and responsibilities.
- Greeted guests, escorted to dining tables and provided menu and information about restaurant to encourage seamless flow of service.
- Maintained sanitary and organized work environment by implementing and executing safe food handling, food service and cleaning procedures.
- Trained new hostesses on customer service best practices and restaurant policies to maintain high standards of service.
- Supported servers, food runners, and bussers with keeping dining area ready for every guest.
Catering Manager
Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh
07.2013 - 08.2015
- Met with clients to outline desired goals and prepared quotes for overall catering costs.
- Handled catering scheduling, ordered food and planned events.
- Set and enforced performance and service standards to keep consistent, high-quality environment devoted to customer satisfaction.
- Promoted catering packages with most profitable outcomes without sacrificing client desires.
- Hired and trained both permanent and temporary staff members.
Trainer
Smashburger
06.2012 - 07.2014
- Mentored new hires, resulting in stronger staff development and increased productivity.
- Monitored and reported trainee progress, introducing new learning tools to address individual needs.
- Developed effective training plans based on department needs and objectives.
- Provided coaching and mentoring to employees.
Education
High School Diploma -
Cactus Shadows High School
Cave Creek, AZ05.2014
Skills
- Staff Management
- Safe Food Handling
- Payroll and Scheduling
- Vendor Relationship Management
- Team Leadership
- Fast Typing Speed
- Menu Planning
- Computer Literacy
- Record Keeping
Timeline
Executive Chef
The Whining Pig Concepts
04.2020 - 01.2024
Saute Cook/ Banquet Cook
The Country Club At DC Ranch
02.2016 - 04.2020
Maitre D'
Maggianos Little Italy
08.2015 - 02.2016
Catering Manager
Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh
07.2013 - 08.2015
Trainer
Smashburger
06.2012 - 07.2014
High School Diploma -
Cactus Shadows High School