William Abke
Summary
Accomplished Lead Cook at Cafe Texan, adept in kitchen management and crew training, enhanced kitchen efficiency and reduced food waste significantly. Demonstrated leadership by mentoring staff and maintaining high food safety standards. Excelled in creating high-quality dishes with attention to detail, fostering a positive and efficient team environment.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Cook
Cafe Texan
Huntsville, TX
03.2023 - 03.2024
- Efficiently handled high-volume orders while maintaining superior food quality through precise execution of cooking methods.
- Maintained a high standard of food quality by consistently reviewing dishes for taste, presentation, and adherence to established guidelines.
- Took over line positions in event of emergency.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining cooking processes and implementing time-saving techniques.
- Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and developing creative recipes to utilize surplus ingredients.
- Supervised line cooks to monitor food safety and order accuracy.
- Maximized ingredient usage by developing creative daily specials that showcased seasonal produce and reduced food costs.
- Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
- Contributed to a positive workplace culture through proactive communication with team members at all levels of the organization.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills by stepping in as acting kitchen manager during periods of personnel absence or transition.
Team Lead
Olive Garden
Huntsville, Tx
10.2021 - 07.2023
- Trained new team members by relaying information on company procedures and safety requirements.
- Promoted a positive work environment by fostering teamwork, open communication, and employee recognition initiatives.
- Served as a role model for the team by demonstrating commitment to excellence, professionalism, and adherence to company values at all times.
- Coached team members in techniques necessary to complete job tasks.
- Worked different stations to provide optimal coverage.
Line Cook
Potato Shack
Huntsville, Tx
11.2018 - 04.2020
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
- Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
- Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues
- Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
- Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
- Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
- Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
- Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
- Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
- Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
BOH Supervisor
Sonic
Huntsville, Tx
06.2016 - 11.2018
- Mentored junior cooks on various cooking techniques, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Maintained high-quality food standards through regular inspection of ingredients and proper storage methods.
- Oversaw kitchen safety compliance through strict adherence to sanitation guidelines and proper equipment maintenance procedures.
- Led kitchen team through successful health inspections, maintaining an impeccable record for cleanliness and food safety.
- Fostered a positive work environment, effectively managing BOH staff and promoting open communication among team members.
- Coordinated with front-of-house teams during high-volume periods to ensure smooth service flow without compromising food quality.
- Ensured timely completion of tasks by creating daily schedules for BOH staff and delegating responsibilities as needed.
- Accepted merchandise and entered appropriate coding into company tracking system.
- Packed and unpacked shipments, reporting discrepancies and keeping precise log of receipts.
- Trained new hires in food handling and safety protocols to boost knowledge and performance.
- Addressed customer complaints with professional demeanor and used communication and problem-solving skills to resolve issues.
- Monitored food inventory and supplies to prevent waste.
- Served consistent portions following recipes and control standards.
Education
High School Diploma -
Huntsville High School
Huntsville, TXSkills
- Meal Preparation
- Kitchen Management
- Food Safety
- Kitchen Organization
- Menu Planning
- Crew training
- Food inventory management
- Food presentation
- Allergen safety
- Coordinating Kitchen Staff
Certification
Food Handlers
TABC
Timeline
Lead Cook
Cafe Texan
03.2023 - 03.2024
Team Lead
Olive Garden
10.2021 - 07.2023
Line Cook
Potato Shack
11.2018 - 04.2020
BOH Supervisor
Sonic
06.2016 - 11.2018
High School Diploma -
Huntsville High School