Valerie Kay Applegate
Cape Girardeau,MO
Summary
Proven leader in the culinary industry, adept at crisis intervention and financial management, significantly enhanced customer satisfaction at Sweet Delights through innovative menu planning and exceptional organization. Skilled in maintaining high standards of safety and quality, leading to increased repeat business and cost-effective operations. Expert in event planning and employee scheduling, consistently delivering memorable dining experiences.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Pastry Chef/Asst. House Manager/Bakery Manager
The Midway
Puxico, MO
10.2022 - Current
- Adapted quickly to last-minute changes in plans or circumstances without compromising on quality or results.
- Ensured food safety protocols were followed throughout the restaurant, maintaining a safe environment for staff and guests at all times.
- Managed day-to-day operation of restaurant to comply with regulations and agency standards..
- Oversaw budget to manage expenditures and control costs.
- Planned special events such as parties or family gatherings with attention to detail and organization.
Baker/Shop Owner
Sweet Delights
Puxico, MO
09.2006 - 10.2023
- Produced consistently high-quality baked goods for customers.
- Complied with health and safety codes to protect staff and customers.
- Operated and maintained bakery equipment, including ovens and mixers.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently producing high-quality baked goods and maintaining a clean, organized workspace.
- Managed customer service operations, including taking orders and resolving complaints.
- Maintained accurate inventory of baking supplies and ingredients.
- Consistently met deadlines for catering orders by effectively prioritizing tasks according to urgency.
- Frosted and iced cakes, cupcakes, cookies, doughnuts, sweet rolls, and coffee cakes.
- Developed creative seasonal recipes, attracting new customers and increasing bakery sales.
Owner/Chef
Lou’s Diner
Zalma, MO
06.2004 - 09.2006
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Diversified revenue streams by exploring new markets and developing innovative products or services tailored to those markets'' needs.
- Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
- Prepared meals from scratch using authentic, popular recipes to generate repeat business.
- Cooked memorable dishes that brought new customers into establishment.
Education
High School Diploma -
Puxico High School
Puxico, MOSkills
- Calendar Management
- Preventive Maintenance
- Exceptional organization
- Crisis Intervention
- Safety Management
- Employee Scheduling
- Appointment Coordination
- Financial Management
Timeline
Head Pastry Chef/Asst. House Manager/Bakery Manager
The Midway
10.2022 - Current
Baker/Shop Owner
Sweet Delights
09.2006 - 10.2023
Owner/Chef
Lou’s Diner
06.2004 - 09.2006
High School Diploma -
Puxico High School