Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
Timeline
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Saul Ortiz Cruz

Executive Chef
Lincoln,CA

Summary

Dynamic Executive Chef with a proven track record at Four Diamond resorts and MGM Corporation, specializing in innovative menu development and cost control. Expert in fostering team growth through coaching and mentoring, while ensuring food safety and high-quality standards. Successfully enhanced customer satisfaction by creating diverse culinary experiences tailored to various dietary needs.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Executive Chef

Thunder Valley Casino
06.2022 - Current
  • Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
  • Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
  • Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
  • Conducted regular evaluations of kitchen equipment and appliances, ensuring proper maintenance and timely replacement to maintain optimal operational efficiency.
  • Managed kitchen staff for efficient food production, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality dishes.

Executive Chef/Concept Creator

MGM Corporation
11.2018 - 06.2022
  • Developer/creator of Diablos kitchen Menu for all corporate outlets(Luxor, Mirage, MGM grand and MGM National Harbor
  • Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
  • Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
  • 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.

Corporate Executive Chef

Big Box Corporation
06.2008 - 11.2018
  • Established strong relationships with local vendors to ensure access to high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
  • Reduced food costs by implementing efficient inventory control systems and streamlining purchasing processes.
  • Spearheaded successful catering operations for corporate events and private parties, leading to repeat business from satisfied clients.
  • Optimized kitchen workflow, increasing overall efficiency and reducing staff turnover rates.
  • Mentored junior chefs, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged skill development and career advancement.
  • Introduced new culinary techniques and trends, elevating the dining experience for patrons.
  • Directed special projects such as restaurant redesigns or expansions which contributed significantly towards long-term business growth.

Executive Chef

Treasure Island Hotel & Casino
04.2004 - 05.2008

Developed budget-friendly recipes.

Developed comprehensive training manual tailored for onboarding process.

Maintained adherence to health codes.

Streamlined produce ordering processes to uphold standardization.

Education

Bachelor Of Business Administration - Business Administration And Management

University of Phoenix/ Online
Reno, NV

Diploma - General Studies

Wooster High School
Reno, NV
06.1997

Skills

  • Food safety
  • Menu planning/Menu engineering
  • Cost control
  • Menu development
  • Strong work ethic
  • ServSafe certification
  • Hiring, training, and development
  • Kitchen management
  • Coaching and mentoring
  • Strong knowledge of CBA

Accomplishments

  • Ex-Restaurant owner
  • Food network appearances
  • International food show guest ( Canada and Mexico)
  • Food concept creator of an 8 million dollars yearly sales concept

Certification

  • Servesafe manager Certification
  • James Beard house member NYC

Languages

Spanish
Full Professional

Timeline

Executive Chef

Thunder Valley Casino
06.2022 - Current

Executive Chef/Concept Creator

MGM Corporation
11.2018 - 06.2022

Corporate Executive Chef

Big Box Corporation
06.2008 - 11.2018

Executive Chef

Treasure Island Hotel & Casino
04.2004 - 05.2008

Bachelor Of Business Administration - Business Administration And Management

University of Phoenix/ Online

Diploma - General Studies

Wooster High School
Saul Ortiz Cruz Executive Chef