Michelle Taber
Atlanta
Summary
Executive chef with expertise in menu development, kitchen staff management, and culinary leadership. Recognized for maintaining high standards and creating innovative menus that enhance customer satisfaction. Proven ability in multitasking, time management, and delivering exceptional customer service.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Co-Owner/Operations Manager
Joolz Entertainment Llc
Atlanta
01.2020 - Current
- Developed diverse catering menus based on client preferences and seasonal ingredients.
- Set up buffet tables and dining areas prior to catered events, ensuring optimal presentation and guest experience.
- Created catering menus that aligned with client expectations while adhering to budget constraints.
- Coordinated logistics for multiple events, ensuring smooth execution from start to finish.
- Developed event timelines and schedules, streamlining planning processes for team members.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their vision and translate it into actionable plans.
- Provided on-site support during events, resolving challenges to maintain seamless service and client satisfaction.
- Managed logistics related to transportation, catering, entertainment, decorations for events.
Executive Chef/Front End Department Manager
Sevananda Natural Foods Market
Atlanta
08.2018 - Current
- Designed seasonal menus using local ingredients to enhance culinary offerings.
- Supervised kitchen staff to enhance food preparation efficiency and service quality.
- Managed inventory and ordering processes to maintain optimal stock levels for uninterrupted service.
- Developed training programs for new kitchen employees on safety and techniques.
- Implemented food safety protocols to comply with health regulations.
- Researched emerging culinary trends to innovate menu items regularly.
- Coordinated with vendors to source high-quality ingredients for dishes.
- Created new menu items, managed food expenses, and supervised quality to ensure adherence to standards.
- Managed ordering, inventory levels, receiving, invoice settling, and equipment maintenance.
- Led front-end team to deliver prompt and effective customer service.
- Trained staff on company policies and customer interaction techniques.
- Implemented employee schedules to optimize workflow and coverage.
- Resolved customer complaints swiftly to improve satisfaction levels.
- Conducted regular audits of cash drawers to identify discrepancies.
- Monitored cash drawers at checkouts to verify adequate cash supply.
Culinary Arts Instructor
City of Refuge
Atlanta
06.2017 - 06.2018
- Developed and implemented lesson plans integrating culinary techniques, safety, nutrition, and food service management.
- Instructed students on culinary terminology and techniques through visual and graphic media to enhance comprehension.
- Facilitated hands-on cooking demonstrations in professional kitchen environments.
- Mentored students on best practices for success in professional kitchens, fostering industry readiness.
- Evaluated student performance through practical assessments and constructive feedback sessions.
- Adapted teaching strategies to meet diverse student needs and learning styles, improving engagement and understanding.
- Guided students in food safety and sanitation practices for industry readiness.
Kitchen Manager
Cheeky Taqueria
Atlanta
10.2016 - 06.2017
- Oversaw daily kitchen operations to maintain efficient workflow and uphold food quality standards.
- Managed inventory levels and ordered supplies to maintain uninterrupted stock availability.
- Trained and supervised kitchen staff on food preparation techniques and safety protocols.
- Coordinated with front-of-house staff to ensure timely service and accuracy in order fulfillment.
- Monitored food costs and waste to enhance kitchen efficiency and resource utilization.
- Directed meal preparation, cooking methods, portion sizes, and plate presentation for consistency.
Certified Line Cook Trainer
Taco Mac Restaurant
Atlanta
11.2015 - 12.2016
- Trained new line cooks on food preparation standards and safety protocols to ensure compliance and enhance kitchen efficiency.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization in kitchen and food storage areas.
- Ensured timely meal preparation during peak service hours to meet demand.
- Conducted quality checks on food items before serving to maintain high standards of food safety and customer satisfaction.
- Evaluated trainee progress through observation during practice runs to prepare them for independent work on live customer orders.
Senior Corporate Trainer/General Manager
Uncle Maddio's Pizza
Dunwoody
07.2011 - 10.2015
- Implemented training programs to boost employee performance and engagement.
- Crafted detailed lesson plans for each module of corporate training program to enhance learning outcomes.
- Developed training materials to facilitate onboarding of new team members in restaurant operations.
- Oversaw daily operations of food service department, ensuring compliance with health standards.
- Coordinated staff schedules to optimize labor distribution across shifts.
Education
Culinary Arts - Certification - Culinary Arts
180 Degree Kitchen Culinary Arts
Atlanta, GA01-2011
High School Diploma -
Perris High School
Perris, CA01-1997
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice
Mt San Antonio College
Walnut, CASkills
- Culinary training and BOH operations
- Menu development and event coordination
- Food safety and safe food handling
- Cash management
- Customer service and leadership
- Time management and special events
- Problem solving and creativity
Accomplishments
- Best of Georgia 2024 Sevananda Natural Food Market
Certification
- ServSafe Certification
Timeline
Co-Owner/Operations Manager
Joolz Entertainment Llc
01.2020 - Current
Executive Chef/Front End Department Manager
Sevananda Natural Foods Market
08.2018 - Current
Culinary Arts Instructor
City of Refuge
06.2017 - 06.2018
Kitchen Manager
Cheeky Taqueria
10.2016 - 06.2017
Certified Line Cook Trainer
Taco Mac Restaurant
11.2015 - 12.2016
Senior Corporate Trainer/General Manager
Uncle Maddio's Pizza
07.2011 - 10.2015
Culinary Arts - Certification - Culinary Arts
180 Degree Kitchen Culinary Arts
High School Diploma -
Perris High School
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice
Mt San Antonio College