Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Affiliations
References
competition experience
Timeline
GeneralManager

Riley Bennett

Burlington,ON

Summary

20 + years of management, hospitality and culinary leadership experience.


12 + years post-secondary academic experience including teaching, curriculum development, program coordinator, curriculum development, national study tours focusing on sustainability.


Passion for innovation, entrepreneurship, business model development and inclusion. Focused, organized, collaborative and an ambitious individual.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Sessional Instructor | Lang School of Hospitality

University Of Guelph
01.2024 - Current

Hospitality Service Operations Analysis

  • Improved student comprehension by incorporating diverse teaching methods and materials.
  • Boosted student performance by providing individualized support and targeted feedback.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistent classroom management techniques.
  • Increased student motivation by developing engaging lesson plans that catered to various learning styles.

Chef Professor

George Brown Chef School
08.2015 - 11.2023
  • Enhanced student understanding by designing interactive and engaging lectures.
  • Increased course relevance by incorporating real-world examples and case studies into lesson plans.
  • Improved student retention rates through proactive communication and support.
  • Promoted collaboration by developing group projects and fostering a positive learning environment.
  • Boosted overall department performance by mentoring junior faculty members and sharing best practices.
  • Established industry connections for students by organizing guest speaker events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
  • Developed innovative teaching methods tailored to diverse learning styles, enhancing student comprehension and success rates.
  • Ensured curriculum alignment with academic standards through regular course review and updates.
  • Strengthened department reputation by presenting at conferences, serving on committees, and participating in professional organizations.
  • Evaluated student progress using both formative and summative assessments to provide targeted feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Expanded program offerings by proposing new courses based on current trends within the field of study.
  • Facilitated cross-disciplinary learning opportunities for students by collaborating with colleagues from other departments.
  • Championed diversity within the department through recruitment efforts, inclusive curriculum design, and community outreach events.
  • Assisted in accreditation processes by gathering necessary documentation, preparing reports, and participating in site visits as needed.
  • Advised students on academic planning, career goals, internships, research opportunities, and graduate school applications to foster successful outcomes postgraduation.
  • Implemented effective time management strategies while balancing teaching responsibilities with research pursuits.
  • Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills, resulting in clear subject matter discussion with students.
  • Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
  • Used different learning modes and types of technology to engage students in achieving learning outcomes.
  • Researched and selected course texts and supplemental learning materials.
  • Created dynamic learning environment that valued instructor and student interaction.
  • Used variety of learning modalities and support materials to facilitate learning process and accentuate presentations.
  • Provided students with constructive, encouraging and corrective feedback.
  • Developed diversified course curriculum to meet regulatory standards and support learning objectives.
  • Instructed and evaluated students in classroom in alignment with college mission by incorporating innovative teaching and learning strategies.
  • Identified research opportunities for students, assisting with gathering data and drawing conclusions for projects.

H235 Honours Bachelor of Commerce Coordinator (Chitkara University)

George Brown Chef School & Chitkara University
01.2021 - 01.2022
  • Enhanced program efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative solutions.
  • Developed effective communication strategies for improved collaboration among team members, resulting in increased productivity.
  • Managed budgets and resources for successful execution of multiple programs simultaneously.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of program deliverables, maintaining project schedules and meeting objectives.

H315 Honours Bachelor of Commerce Coordinator & Professor George Brown Chef School

George Brown College Chef School
01.2016 - 01.2022
  • Enhanced program efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative solutions.
  • Developed effective communication strategies for improved collaboration among team members, resulting in increased productivity.
  • Managed budgets and resources for successful execution of multiple programs simultaneously.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of program deliverables, maintaining project schedules and meeting objectives.
  • Implemented evaluation tools to measure program effectiveness, utilizing data-driven insights for continuous improvement.
  • Established strategic partnerships with external organizations, expanding program reach and impact.
  • Led training sessions for staff and volunteers, fostering a knowledgeable and cohesive team environment.
  • Organized events and workshops to engage participants, enhancing their learning experience within the program framework.
  • Developed marketing materials to promote program offerings, increasing awareness and participation rates among target audiences.
  • Facilitated regular meetings with team members to discuss progress updates, address challenges, and brainstorm solutions for ongoing success.
  • Cultivated a collaborative work culture by encouraging open communication channels among team members which led increased job satisfaction rates amongst employees.
  • Championed program improvement initiatives based on stakeholder feedback, demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to excellence.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with external partners to facilitate program operations.
  • Collaborated with other program coordinators to achieve consistency in program objectives and services.
  • Kept program-related data accurate, up-to-date and easily accessible for accessibility.
  • Analyzed program data by tracking and reporting program outcomes to identify areas of improvement.
  • Tracked and reported expenses accurately to manage program budgets.
  • Organized and managed program development from conception through successful execution.
  • Developed program marketing and outreach strategies to increase awareness and attract new participants.
  • Motivated and directed staff to align operations with organizational mission using appropriate training initiatives and presentations.
  • Provided technical support to staff with necessary resources to carry out duties successfully.
  • Collaborated with various teams to uncover issues, identify applicable solutions, and offer guidance.
  • Created and enforced programming standards to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Developed proposals and operational plans within assigned area.

Catering Chef / Owner

Twin Elements Catering and Consulting
01.2011 - 01.2022
  • Increased customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality catering services for various events.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations by implementing efficient food preparation and cooking techniques.
  • Enhanced menu offerings by developing innovative and delicious recipes tailored to clients'' preferences.
  • Collaborated with event planners for seamless execution of catered functions, resulting in positive feedback from clients.
  • Ensured timely delivery of meals by coordinating efficient transportation methods and logistics.
  • Managed food inventory effectively, reducing waste and minimizing food costs.
  • Trained and mentored junior chefs, elevating their culinary skills and performance levels.
  • Maintained a clean and sanitary kitchen environment by adhering to strict health and safety regulations.
  • Provided exceptional client service through proactive communication and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors, ensuring consistent quality of ingredients at competitive prices.
  • Demonstrated versatility in cuisine styles, adapting menus to accommodate dietary restrictions or cultural preferences as needed.
  • Generated repeat business through exceptional customer experiences, showcasing professionalism and attention to detail in every interaction.

Culinary Arts Professor | Part Time

Humber College of Applied Arts
09.2015 - 04.2016
  • Enhanced student understanding by designing interactive and engaging lectures.
  • Increased course relevance by incorporating real-world examples and case studies into lesson plans.
  • Improved student retention rates through proactive communication and support.
  • Promoted collaboration by developing group projects and fostering a positive learning environment.
  • Implemented rigorous quality control measures to ensure consistent taste and presentation of dishes.
  • Mentored junior chefs in culinary techniques, fostering a collaborative and learning-focused work environment.

Chef Technologist | The Chefs House

George Brown College
07.2011 - 01.2015
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality culinary creations.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations for increased efficiency through effective staff management and delegation.
  • Reduced food waste with strategic menu planning and inventory control techniques.
  • Developed innovative recipes, attracting new clientele and increasing overall sales.
  • Implemented rigorous quality control measures to ensure consistent taste and presentation of dishes.
  • Collaborated effectively with front-of-house team for seamless dining experience and positive customer feedback.
  • Mentored junior chefs in culinary techniques, fostering a collaborative and learning-focused work environment.
  • Managed food costs, sourcing ingredients from local suppliers to support community partnerships and sustainable practices.
  • Spearheaded successful catering events, showcasing the restaurant''s signature dishes while maintaining impeccable standards of service.
  • Adapted menus seasonally, incorporating fresh produce to create visually appealing and flavorful dishes.
  • Continually improved kitchen safety by enforcing strict hygiene protocols and staff training on equipment usage.
  • Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
  • Achieved cost reduction targets by negotiating with suppliers for better pricing on key ingredients.
  • Regularly updated menu offerings based on customer preferences, driving repeat business for the establishment.
  • Upheld stringent food safety regulations, ensuring compliance with all relevant health department guidelines.
  • Introduced unique fusion cuisine concepts that garnered widespread praise from both customers and food critics alike.
  • Cultivated a positive work culture among kitchen staff through open communication lines and mutual respect within the team.

Culinary Arts Instructor | Continuing Education

George Brown College
01.2012 - 03.2012
  • Enhanced student culinary skills by demonstrating advanced techniques and providing personalized guidance.
  • Improved course curriculum by collaborating with colleagues to develop engaging lesson plans and hands-on activities.
  • Increased student success rate through consistent evaluations, constructive feedback, and tailored support.
  • Promoted a safe and hygienic kitchen environment by enforcing strict sanitation guidelines and proper food handling practices.
  • Empowered students to create original recipes by fostering creativity and encouraging experimentation with ingredients.
  • Facilitated learning of diverse cuisines, broadening students'' culinary horizons and expanding their skill sets.

Restaurant Chef / Executive Sous Chef

Mission Hill Family Estate Winery
01.2009 - 01.2011
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction by creating innovative and visually appealing dishes with fresh ingredients.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining processes, reducing prep time, and optimizing food storage methods.
  • Developed signature recipes that increased brand recognition and customer loyalty to the restaurant.
  • Collaborated with front-of-house staff to provide exceptional service, ensuring seamless communication between departments.

Education

MBA - Sustainable Commerce

University of Guelph
Guelph, ON
2018

Interprovincial Red Seal Certification - Baking / Patisserie

Ontario College of Trades
Toronto, ON
2015

Certified Chef de Cuisine - Culinary Arts

Souther Alberta Institute of Technology
Calgary, AB
2013

Interprovincial Red Seal Certification - Chef

Ontario College of Trades
Toronto
2012

Skills

Business Management

Peer Collaboration

Student Engagement

Grading and Reporting

Curriculum Creation

Partnership Building

Course Planning

Learning Outcome Alignment

Academic Advisory

Student-Centered Learning

Team Leadership

Critical Thinking

Certification

Leadership Development Series Workshops

Media Relations Training

Toronto Food-Handlers Certificate

St. John’s First Aid Training

Smart Serve Certificate

A.O.D.A. Certificate

Languages

English
Full Professional

Affiliations

  • Food Science Enthusiast
  • Building and Creating
  • Sports

References

References available upon request.

competition experience

Skills Canada Team Ontario Culinary Coach | 2018

Taste Canada Cooks the Books Mentor and Coach | 2018, 2023

Skills Canada Provincial and National Judge | 2017, 2018, 2019

Hawksworth Youth Scholarship Foundation Organizer, Judge, Coach and Mentor | 2017, 2018, 2019

Bocuse D'or Canada Heat Competitor | 2010

Food and Hotel Asia Competitor | 2002

Culinary Arts Salon Competitor | 2000

Skills Canada Competitor in National and Provincial | 1999, 2000, 2001

Team Canada and Team Alberta Support Member | 1999

Fetzer Food and Wine Pairing Competition Competitor, Professional and Apprentice | 2001

Timeline

Sessional Instructor | Lang School of Hospitality

University Of Guelph
01.2024 - Current

H235 Honours Bachelor of Commerce Coordinator (Chitkara University)

George Brown Chef School & Chitkara University
01.2021 - 01.2022

H315 Honours Bachelor of Commerce Coordinator & Professor George Brown Chef School

George Brown College Chef School
01.2016 - 01.2022

Culinary Arts Professor | Part Time

Humber College of Applied Arts
09.2015 - 04.2016

Chef Professor

George Brown Chef School
08.2015 - 11.2023

Culinary Arts Instructor | Continuing Education

George Brown College
01.2012 - 03.2012

Chef Technologist | The Chefs House

George Brown College
07.2011 - 01.2015

Catering Chef / Owner

Twin Elements Catering and Consulting
01.2011 - 01.2022

Restaurant Chef / Executive Sous Chef

Mission Hill Family Estate Winery
01.2009 - 01.2011

MBA - Sustainable Commerce

University of Guelph

Interprovincial Red Seal Certification - Baking / Patisserie

Ontario College of Trades

Certified Chef de Cuisine - Culinary Arts

Souther Alberta Institute of Technology

Interprovincial Red Seal Certification - Chef

Ontario College of Trades
Riley Bennett