Paulo Maia
Toronto,ON
Summary
Experienced and detail-oriented chef with 12+ years in high-end culinary environments across Canada, Brazil, and the USA. Skilled in managing full-scale kitchen operations, team leadership, and contemporary menu development rooted in French techniques, and regional authenticity. Proven ability to lead kitchens under pressure while maintaining excellence in quality, safety, and innovation.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Head Chef
Power Kitchen / Easy Mealz / Cantina Toronto
Toronto, Canada
11.2023 - Current
- Oversees kitchen operations for multiple brands, including meal prep and dine-in services.
- Leads menu development across diverse food concepts.
- Maintains high production standards and health compliance in large-scale operations.
Sous Chef
Power Kitchen / Easy Mealz / Cantina Toronto
Toronto, Canada
03.2022 - 10.2023
- Assisted in restructuring production workflow to improve efficiency.
- Supervised junior chefs and coordinated daily prep for over 1,000 meals/day.
- Ensured high-quality standards and HACCP compliance across all units.
Head Chef
Vogal Luxury Beach Hotel & Spa
Natal, Brazil
12.2019 - 02.2022
- Led a fine dining team in a 5-star resort with multiple outlets and banquet operations.
- Designed seasonal tasting menus and curated high-end events.
- Implemented training programs and kitchen SOPs.
Sous Chef
Vogal Luxury Beach Hotel & Spa
Natal, Brazil
08.2019 - 11.2019
- Supported the Executive Chef in managing the à la carte and buffet services.
- Led inventory control and supplier communications.
Chef de Partie
Vogal Luxury Beach Hotel & Spa
Natal, Brazil
05.2019 - 07.2019
- In charge of the hot line and daily mise en place for gourmet dining.
- Collaborated with pastry and banquet teams for event execution.
Head Chef
Chef Fits Restaurant
Natal, Brazil
02.2018 - 04.2019
- Developed a health-conscious menu with contemporary plating.
- Oversaw staff scheduling and food costing in a boutique healthy cuisine concept.
First Cook
Marechal Restaurant
Natal, Brazil
10.2018 - 01.2019
- Operated grill and sauté stations in a fine dining Brazilian bistro.
First Cook
Sammis Café
Miami, USA
03.2017 - 07.2017
- Prepared breakfast and lunch service in a high-volume, multicultural kitchen.
- Executed daily mise en place and supported hot and cold stations.
Owner / Chef
Chef Paulo To Go
Natal, Brazil
01.2015 - 02.2017
- Created and managed a personal chef delivery business.
- Handled all aspects from procurement and cooking to client service.
Education
Diploma - Culinary Arts
Universidade Potiguar (UnP)
Natal, RN, Brazil01.2014
Skills
- Menu development and culinary trends
- Food safety compliance
- Kitchen management and inventory control
- Production efficiency and cost management
- Staff training and team leadership
- Signature dish creation and seasonal menu planning
Certification
Certified Food Handler – Toronto Public Health
Languages
Portuguese – Native, English – Intermediate, Spanish – Intermediate
Other Experience
- Serhs Natal Grand Hotel & Resort – Garde Manger Assistant, Kitchen Assistant, Junior Baker (2014)
- La Brasserie de La Mer – Garde Manger Assistant (2014)
- Sebrae/RN – Culinary Business Consultant (2013)
Timeline
Head Chef
Power Kitchen / Easy Mealz / Cantina Toronto
11.2023 - Current
Sous Chef
Power Kitchen / Easy Mealz / Cantina Toronto
03.2022 - 10.2023
Head Chef
Vogal Luxury Beach Hotel & Spa
12.2019 - 02.2022
Sous Chef
Vogal Luxury Beach Hotel & Spa
08.2019 - 11.2019
Chef de Partie
Vogal Luxury Beach Hotel & Spa
05.2019 - 07.2019
First Cook
Marechal Restaurant
10.2018 - 01.2019
Head Chef
Chef Fits Restaurant
02.2018 - 04.2019
First Cook
Sammis Café
03.2017 - 07.2017
Owner / Chef
Chef Paulo To Go
01.2015 - 02.2017
Diploma - Culinary Arts
Universidade Potiguar (UnP)
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