Michael Festa
Vero Beach,FL
Summary
Results-driven culinary professional with experience leading daily kitchen operations, building seasonal menus, and maintaining ServSafe standards. Proven ability to train and develop staff, manage inventory, and improve efficiency while supporting strong guest satisfaction.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Operator/Pit Master
Big Mike's BBQ and Catering
06.2016 - Current
- Directed daily barbecue and catering operations, coordinating prep, service, and production workflows.
- Developed menu offerings and smoking techniques to maintain consistent flavor, texture, and presentation.
- Managed food ordering, inventory control, and vendor relationships to support reliable kitchen operations.
- Supervised catering setup, delivery, and on-site service for private events and large orders.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
- Spoke professionally with customers regarding complaints, gathering all necessary information to make educated decisions and address issues.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Established strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring consistent delivery of goods and services at competitive prices.
Executive Chef
Italian Kitchen
06.2005 - Current
- Directed daily kitchen operations, coordinating prep, line execution, and service timing for consistent meal quality.
- Developed seasonal Italian menus, balancing authenticity, ingredient availability, and guest preferences.
- Trained culinary staff on recipe standards, plating presentation, and sanitation procedures.
- Managed food inventory, ordering, and vendor relations to maintain stock levels and reduce waste.
- Standardized recipes and portion controls to support consistency across menu items.
- Collaborated with front-of-house leadership to resolve service issues and improve guest satisfaction.
- Monitored kitchen cleanliness and compliance with food safety regulations during service and prep.
Chef
Arturos Italian Restaurant
02.2002 - 05.2005
- Prepared Italian dishes to consistent standards, maintaining flavor, presentation, and portion control.
- Coordinated kitchen stations to ensure timely service during high-volume dinner rushes.
- Monitored food quality and adjusted seasoning, cooking methods, and plating for accuracy.
- Managed prep schedules, ensuring ingredients were ready for efficient service flow.
Operational Efficiency Consultant (Union Rep)
Waldbaums Supermarket
03.1999 - 10.2002
- An independent operational assessment role focused on identifying redundant positions, inefficient processes, overlapping responsibilities, and opportunities to improve productivity and reduce unnecessary labor costs.
Assistant Produce Manager
Waldbaums Supermarket
01.1997 - 03.1999
- Supervised produce displays, ensuring fresh presentation and consistent product rotation.
- Monitored inventory levels, reordered items, and reduced stock shortages.
- Trained associates on produce handling, sanitation standards, and department procedures.
- Inspected incoming shipments for quality, ripeness, and compliance with store standards.
- Resolved customer concerns quickly while maintaining high standards for freshness and appearance.
- Participated in regular department meetings to discuss performance metrics, strategies for improvement, and upcoming promotional activities.
Produce Clerk
Waldbaums Supermarket
09.1994 - 04.1997
- Managed produce displays to maintain freshness, presentation, and product rotation standards.
- Inspected fruits and vegetables for quality, removing damaged or expired items promptly.
- Restocked shelves and refrigerated cases to support consistent product availability.
- Rotated inventory using FIFO methods to reduce waste and preserve product integrity.
- Maintained clean, sanitary work areas, equipment, and storage spaces.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Human Services
Indian River State College
Ft. Pierce, FLAssociate of Applied Science - Culinary Management
Indian River State College
Ft. Pierce, FL05-2023
Skills
- Food safety
- Menu planning
- Cost control
- Menu development
- Strong work ethic
- ServSafe certification
- Team leadership
- Hiring, training, and development
Timeline
Owner/Operator/Pit Master
Big Mike's BBQ and Catering
06.2016 - Current
Executive Chef
Italian Kitchen
06.2005 - Current
Chef
Arturos Italian Restaurant
02.2002 - 05.2005
Operational Efficiency Consultant (Union Rep)
Waldbaums Supermarket
03.1999 - 10.2002
Assistant Produce Manager
Waldbaums Supermarket
01.1997 - 03.1999
Produce Clerk
Waldbaums Supermarket
09.1994 - 04.1997
Bachelor of Arts - Human Services
Indian River State College
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Management
Indian River State College