Jessica Ward
Thunder Bay
Summary
Professional culinary expert with strong track record in leading kitchen operations and producing high-quality dishes. Adept at team collaboration, ensuring smooth service, and adapting to changing needs. Highly skilled in menu development, food safety, and cost management. Known for reliability and achieving results in fast-paced environments.
Innovative Chef de Cuisine with management competencies to handle 220 customers in busy dining establishment. Dedicated to promoting fun, educational and disciplined work environment.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chef De Cuisine
Bight Restaurant & Bar
08.2024 - 01.2025
- Optimized kitchen workflow by delegating tasks according to individual strengths, resulting in faster ticket times during peak hours.
- Participated in regular menu tastings with ownership and management to evaluate dishes for flavor balance, presentation, and ingredient quality.
- Created lasting relationships with local purveyors, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the foodservice industry.
Head Chef
Giorg Cucina E Barra
02.2024 - 08.2024
- Managed food costs effectively with careful menu planning, accurate portion control, and utilization of seasonal ingredients.
- Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
- Created unique daily specials that attracted repeat clientele and generated positive word-of-mouth referrals for the restaurant.
Sous Chef
Bistro One
02.2020 - 01.2022
- Collaborated with executive chef to develop innovative menu items, leading to increased guest return rates and positive reviews.
- Contributed to menu design, incorporating innovative culinary techniques that attracted wider clientele.
- Led kitchen team during high-volume service times, ensuring seamless operation and guest satisfaction.
Head Line Cook
Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar
03.2016 - 02.2020
- Collaborated with executive chef to design creative daily specials, enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Mentored new staff members on restaurant policies and procedures to facilitate their smooth integration into the team.
- Trained junior cooks in advanced culinary techniques, elevating overall team skill level.
Line Cook
El Tres
04.2013 - 03.2017
- Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
- Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
- Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
Skills
- Baking fundamentals
- Kitchen leadership
- Recipe creation
- Fine-dining expertise
- Menu design
Certification
- Food Safety Manager Certification - National Registry of Food Safety Professionals or Prometric.
Timeline
Chef De Cuisine
Bight Restaurant & Bar
08.2024 - 01.2025
Head Chef
Giorg Cucina E Barra
02.2024 - 08.2024
Sous Chef
Bistro One
02.2020 - 01.2022
Head Line Cook
Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar
03.2016 - 02.2020
Line Cook
El Tres
04.2013 - 03.2017
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