Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Certification
Languages
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ZIAD ZAHER

Terre Haute,INDIANA

Summary

Accomplished hospitality and food service management professional with over 18 years of experience in overseeing day-to-day operations, enhancing customer satisfaction, and driving business growth. Expertise in fine dining, fast food management, Vending Machine and hospitality services. Graduated with a university degree that was centered on producing and training a well-rounded manager to conquer all different complications as a manager in hospitality and Food Service Mgt. Proven ability to manage budgets, optimize revenue, and lead high-performing teams. Completed over 3,000 hours of accelerated training in various food service management roles, in various hospitals, nursing homes, Vigo County School Corporations settings, including internships and employment at Sodexo, Aramark and Compass Group With a proven track record of over 16 years in hospitality and food service management, I bring a wealth of experience in optimizing operations, enhancing customer satisfaction, and driving business growth across various settings, including fine dining, fast food, and hospitality services. My hands-on experience, combined with extensive training and a strong educational background, positions me as a versatile and effective leader in the industry.

Overview

1
1
Certificate

Work History

Food Service Manager 3

Aramark-CHOOLA INDIANA BBQ& 8Eleven Modern Bistro
Memorial Building Perdue University
05 2025 - 02 2026

Oversaw training of more than 34 team members.

  • Assessed the effectiveness of implemented changes periodically, adjusting strategies as needed based on performance metrics and feedback from staff members.
  • Increased overall profitability by analyzing sales data and adjusting menu prices accordingly based on demand patterns.
  • Oversaw budget development for the department, allocating resources efficiently to maintain financial targets while delivering exceptional guest experiences.
  • Established strong relationships with local suppliers, sourcing fresh produce from nearby farms whenever possible for higher-quality dishes at lower costs.
  • Streamlined operations for increased efficiency, implementing cost-saving measures and reducing waste.
  • Launched successful loyalty programs that rewarded repeat customers with exclusive discounts and promotions.
  • Implemented inventory management systems, optimizing stock levels while minimizing waste due to spoilage or overstocking.
  • Maintained compliance with company policies and procedures for food safety, sanitation, and quality.
  • Tracked food production levels, meal counts, and supply costs.
  • Oversaw balancing of cash registers, reconciled transactions, and deposited establishment's earnings to bank.
  • Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
  • Prepared weekly schedules and assigned tasks to staff to maintain organized shift and smooth operations.
  • Reviewed and approved employee schedules and timesheets.
  • Motivated staff to perform at peak efficiency and quality, specifically during Choolahs Grand Opening.
  • Developed and implemented kitchen policies and procedures to establish clear guidelines for kitchen operations and comply with regulations.
  • Delegated food preparation duties down to cooks and followed up with cooks to verify proper preparation and production of meals.
  • Calculated prices of ingredients to monitor food costs and control expenses.
  • Reviewed and analyzed kitchen performance to verify gaps and observe continuous improvement.
  • Oversaw budgeting and financial planning for food service operations, enhancing profitability margins.
  • Promoted a positive work environment by fostering open communication among team members and resolving conflicts effectively.
  • Upheld Indiana Retail food code policies consistently across all areas of operation while remaining flexible enough to address unique situations as they arose within the workplace setting.
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating favorable pricing on ingredients and supplies.
  • Improved operational efficiency, introducing standardized procedures for order preparation and delivery.
  • Monitored food quality and freshness during all stages of preparation, storage, and service to ensure consistently excellent dining experiences for guests.
  • Achieved cost savings by negotiating contracts with suppliers, reducing food waste, and streamlining operations when possible.
  • Developed strategies on grand opening day for choolah to improve food service effienchy for grand opening day

Assistant Catering Manager

Aramark Perdue University
West Lafayette
09 2024 - 03 2025
  • ​Managed budgets and inventory control, reducing overall costs and minimizing waste.
  • ​Increased employee retention rates within the catering department by fostering a culture of open communication and professional development.
  • ​Improved efficiency within the department by implementing new scheduling software that streamlined employee management tasks.
  • ​Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating favorable contracts for food and supplies.
  • ​Monitored and adjusted pricing, discounts and promotions to maximize profitability.

Food Service Manager

Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
05 2019 - 01 2023
  • Trained and supervised new staff to enhance customer service skills and comply with food safety standards.
  • Controlled labor hours and inventory costs through hands-on management and proactive changes.
  • Tracked food production levels, meal counts, and supply costs.
  • Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
  • Reviewed and approved employee schedules and timesheets.
  • Ensured high standards of cleanliness and sanitation with regular inspections and staff training.

Food Service Manager 3

Sodexo Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
06 2015 - 08 2020
  • Managed and supervised a team of 17 food service employees, including 4 Lead Supervisors and 2 Catering Managers.
  • Ensured compliance with safety regulations and conducted weekly inspections with a team of food service professionals.
  • Planned and coordinated daily and weekly operations for preparation cooks, front of the house, back of the house, and University fine dining restaurants.
  • Improved and maintained systems and procedures for ordering, receiving, storing, preparing, and serving food and related products.
  • Provided excellent guest service while adhering to all company policies.
  • Increased sales and decreased waste by optimizing the use of produce and canned goods.
  • Made decisions that improved Sodexo’s overall success in the kitchen and University Dining Areas.
  • Brought innovative ideas to move the business forward within company policies and guidelines.
  • Built and motivated hourly employees and assistant managers to reach daily and weekly goals.
  • Ensured effective communication at all levels through office 365 dynamic.
  • Oversaw inventory management processes, reducing spoilage rates while maintaining adequate stock levels for daily operations.
  • Managed budgetary constraints effectively, optimizing food costs and minimizing waste.
  • Led a team of culinary professionals to create memorable dining experiences for guests.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by implementing innovative menu options and quality control measures.
  • Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
  • Inspected equipment and machinery for proper working condition and directed staff to clean and repair as needed.
  • Oversaw food preparation and monitored safety protocols.
  • Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
  • Implemented health and safety guidelines consistently, maintaining an exemplary sanitation record.

Food Service Manager 2 trainee

Aramark, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Terre Haute, Indiana 47803
11 2019 - 12 2019
  • Developed a strong team of food service professionals, selecting top talent through comprehensive recruitment initiatives.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations through regular inspections, staff training, and process improvements.
  • Cultivated an inclusive workplace culture that encouraged teamwork, promoted diversity, and supported professional growth opportunities for all employees.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive employee training programs that covered essential foodservice skills, customer service, and safety protocols.
  • Enhanced overall efficiency by streamlining food service processes and introducing new menu items.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business including budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and profit maximization strategies.
  • Improved staff retention rates by offering competitive compensation packages and fostering a supportive work environment.
  • Drove revenue growth by identifying untapped market segments and developing targeted promotions to attract new clientele.
  • Expanded catering services to accommodate various events, increasing overall sales revenue for the business.
  • Created a positive dining atmosphere by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization throughout the establishment.
  • Contributed to community engagement efforts through participation in local events, sponsorships of charitable initiatives, and partnerships with area schools or organizations.
  • Developed and published MSDS Manuals for all food service settings at RHIT
  • Tracked food production levels, meal counts, and supply costs.
  • Prepared weekly schedules and assigned tasks to staff to maintain organized shift and smooth operations.
  • Oversaw training of more than 23 team members.
  • Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
  • Motivated staff to perform at peak efficiency and quality.
  • Managed staff schedules and maintained adequate coverage for all shifts.
  • Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
  • Controlled labor hours and inventory costs through hands-on management and proactive changes.
  • Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
  • Oversaw balancing of cash registers, reconciled transactions, and deposited establishment's earnings to bank.
  • Oversaw training of more than 15 team members.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Food Service & Hospitality Management, Business Administration

Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
09.2015

Skills

  • Analytical and Critical Thinking
  • Self-Motivated
  • Google Workspace
  • Risk management
  • Staff Management
  • Report analysis
  • Employee training and development
  • Advanced MS Office Suite
  • Advanced MS 365 suite
  • Advanced CoPilot 365
  • Gemini 35
  • Adobe Express
  • Adobe Suite
  • Gather software expertise
  • Catering events specialist
  • Caterease proficiency
  • Fine dining specialist
  • Event planning proficiency
  • Hospitality Industry specialist
  • Food plating and presentation
  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Amazon FBA
  • Retail arbitrage
  • InventoryLab
  • Online auctions
  • Ecommerce
  • Recipes and menu planning
  • Scheduling
  • MS Office
  • Google Workspace
  • Analytical and Critical Thinking
  • Copilot
  • Google Ad
  • Brand development
  • Marketing and advertising
  • Inventory management
  • InventoryLab
  • Cost-benefit analysis
  • Shipping management
  • Staff supervision
  • Policy Development
  • Menu development
  • Cultural Awareness
  • Active Listening
  • PPE Compliance

Timeline

Food Service Manager 3

Aramark-CHOOLA INDIANA BBQ& 8Eleven Modern Bistro
05 2025 - 02 2026

Assistant Catering Manager

Aramark Perdue University
09 2024 - 03 2025

Food Service Manager

Indiana State University
05 2019 - 01 2023

Food Service Manager 3

Sodexo Indiana State University
06 2015 - 08 2020

Food Service Manager 2 trainee

Aramark, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
11 2019 - 12 2019

Bachelor of Science - Food Service & Hospitality Management, Business Administration

Indiana State University

Certification

  • ServSafe Food Protection Manager 2015-Dosnt Expire
  • ServSafe Food Handlers 2025-2028

Languages

Arabic
Native or Bilingual
ZIAD ZAHER