MICHAEL A. GRAY
Bohemian Club
SAN DIEGO,CA
12
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Seasoned culinary professional with over 15 years in high-volume kitchens, fine dining, and culinary consulting. Expertise in menu development, team leadership, and cost control drives operational efficiency and elevated food presentation. Proven ability to foster positive kitchen cultures, develop talent, and minimize waste while ensuring culinary offerings align with brand standards and market trends.
Work History
Research & Development Chef
3 Years 11 Months- Developed and refined menus, recipes, and culinary concepts to enhance catering and event experiences.
- Collaborated across culinary and operations teams to translate concepts into efficient, service-ready execution.
- Collaborated with culinary and operations teams to ensure seamless translation of concepts into efficient, service-ready execution.
- Supported tasting and event programs while maintaining brand standards and guest-focused quality.
Culinary Consultant
2 Years 9 Months- Guided menu development, kitchen systems, team performance, and seasonal programming.
- Supported production planning, execution, and culinary standards for high-volume Bohemian Grove summer events.
- Identified and implemented workflow improvements, consistency enhancements, waste reduction strategies, and operational efficiencies.
Sous Chef
6 Years 6 Months- Led daily kitchen operations, enhancing service quality in a demanding private-club environment.
- Trained and developed culinary staff, reinforcing standards for quality, sanitation, and organization to elevate service delivery.
- Supported menu development and production planning, ensuring efficient kitchen execution aligned with culinary standards.
Chef de Cuisine | Seasonal
2 Years 4 Months- Directed kitchen production and service for high-volume seasonal hospitality operation, ensuring timely and efficient meal delivery.
- Developed guest-focused menus utilizing available ingredients while optimizing quality, labor, food cost, and waste management.
- Managed kitchen staff and coordinated production, inventory, sanitation, and service execution to maintain operational standards.
Private Chef
4 Years- Crafted elevated multi-course meals and tailored menus for private clients and special occasions, enhancing dining experiences.
- Collaborated with a nutritionist to design nutrition-focused meal programs for professional athletes, promoting optimal performance.
- Developed customized menus based on client preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Sourced high-quality ingredients from local markets and specialty vendors.
- Prepared and presented gourmet meals for private events and gatherings.
Vegan Restaurant Consultant
1 Year- Consulted on modern vegan restaurant concept, focusing on menu development and culinary execution to enhance guest experience.
- Developed operational strategies to enhance service efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Conducted comprehensive market analysis to identify emerging trends and competitive opportunities.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to improve menu design and streamline food preparation processes.
Chef Mentor
2 Years- Mentored culinary students through hands-on instruction in professional standards, fostering teamwork and supporting career development.
Education
B.A. - Culinary Management
- Graduated with Honors
- Student Speaker, Commencement Ceremony
Skills
Menu R&D
Product development
Menu innovation
Food presentation
Cost control
Kitchen Operations
Fine dining
Seasonal cuisine
Private events
Team training
Staff training
Operational excellence
Food Safety & Sanitation
Culinary Leadership
Problem Solving
Communication & Collaboration
Strong Leadership
Detail-oriented
Critical Thinker
Adaptable
Operational excellence
Certification
ServSafe Manager Certified, March 2025
Timeline
Culinary Consultant
Bohemian Club
12.2023 - CurrentRead More
Research & Development Chef
Toast Catering
09.2022 - 08.2026Read More
Vegan Restaurant Consultant
El Avocado
01.2020 - 01.2021Read More
Private Chef
Private Dining
01.2019 - 01.2023Read More
Chef de Cuisine | Seasonal
Highliner Lodge
05.2018 - 09.2020Read More
Sous Chef
Bohemian Club
06.2017 - 12.2023Read More
Chef Mentor
C-CAP
01.2015 - 01.2017Read More
Art Institute of Phoenix
B.A. from Culinary Management
Read More