Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Matthew Letterman

Felton

Summary

Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience at Red Lobster, excelling in kitchen management and team leadership. Proven track record in enhancing customer satisfaction through exceptional food presentation and adherence to health and safety compliance. Skilled in inventory management and cost control, fostering a collaborative environment that drives efficiency and quality.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Cook Shift Leader

Healthcare Services Group
11.2024 - Current
  • Assisted in food preparation and cooking tasks under supervision.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen stations.
  • Learned and adhered to safety and sanitation procedures consistently.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure efficient workflow during shifts.
  • Participated in inventory management by tracking ingredient supplies.
  • Adapted quickly to changing kitchen demands and menu items.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, adhering to health department standards for safety and sanitation.
  • Demonstrated exceptional multitasking abilities by overseeing multiple cooking stations simultaneously while maintaining quality control standards.

Head Cook

Sweets & Treats
10.2022 - 07.2023
  • Prepared and cooked a variety of meals, ensuring adherence to quality standards.
  • Managed kitchen inventory, maintaining organization and freshness of ingredients.
  • Collaborated with staff to streamline food preparation processes for efficiency.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations during food handling and preparation.
  • Assisted in menu planning, incorporating seasonal ingredients for enhanced flavor profiles.
  • Trained new kitchen staff on proper cooking techniques and kitchen protocols.
  • Monitored food presentation and portion control to maintain culinary excellence.
  • Responded promptly to customer feedback, adapting recipes to meet dietary preferences.
  • Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
  • Maintained high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen, meeting or exceeding health department requirements.
  • Inspected freezer and refrigerator daily to check and maintain proper temperatures.

Cook

Sportzone
02.2021 - 10.2022
  • Prepared meals according to standardized recipes, ensuring consistency and quality.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen equipment and workstations.
  • Assisted with inventory management, monitoring stock levels and ordering supplies as needed.
  • Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow during peak service times.
  • Supported training of new kitchen staff on proper cooking techniques and safety protocols.
  • Adapted quickly to changing menus and special dietary requirements from customers.
  • Implemented food safety practices, reducing the risk of contamination and enhancing hygiene standards.

Executive Sous Chef

Doc Mcgrogans
01.2010 - 04.2012
  • Supervised kitchen operations, ensuring efficient workflow and high standards of food quality.
  • Developed and implemented seasonal menus, enhancing culinary offerings and customer satisfaction.
  • Trained and mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering skill development and teamwork.
  • Managed inventory control processes, reducing waste and optimizing ingredient usage.
  • Collaborated with front-of-house teams to enhance guest experience through timely service delivery.
  • Enforced health and safety regulations, maintaining compliance across food preparation areas.
  • Increased customer satisfaction through consistent delivery of exceptional dishes, resulting in positive reviews.
  • Assisted Executive Chef in cost analysis and budget management, optimizing profitability without compromising quality.
  • Managed inventory control, reducing food waste and optimizing budget allocation.

Restaurant Manager

Red Lobster
03.2001 - 07.2008

Positions held within the company include cooking, Restaurant shift manager, restaurant bar manager, hospitality manager, assistant restaurant manger.

  • Led daily operations, ensuring high-quality service and customer satisfaction.
  • Trained and mentored new staff, promoting adherence to company standards.
  • Implemented inventory control procedures to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
  • Developed staff schedules to enhance productivity and align with business needs.
  • Streamlined communication between front-of-house and back-of-house teams for efficient service delivery.
  • Analyzed customer feedback to identify areas for improvement in service offerings.
  • Monitored compliance with health and safety regulations, maintaining a safe dining environment.
  • Supervised all areas of restaurant to keep it clean and well-maintained.
  • Managed staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage during peak times and reduced labor costs.
  • Monitored daily cash transactions, ensuring accuracy in all financial reporting processes.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints promptly and professionally.
  • Kept restaurant compliant with all federal, state, and local hygiene and food safety regulations.
  • Performed daily administrative tasks, such as ordering supplies, processing invoices and reconciling accounts.
  • Monitored restaurant operations and adjusted schedules to meet peak customer demand.
  • Immediately resolved issues with patrons by employing careful listening and communication skills.
  • Conducted regular meetings with staff to discuss performance and address any issues.
  • Pitched in to help host, waitstaff, and bussers during exceptionally busy times such as dinner hour.
  • Improved staff morale through effective communication skills and motivational techniques, resulting in enhanced teamwork and productivity.
  • Managed team of up to around 140 restaurant staff, maintaining exceptional customer service and quality standards.
  • Ensured compliance with health department regulations by maintaining a clean and safe dining environment.
  • Analyzed daily sales figures and developed strategies to increase sales.
  • Implemented staff training programs to improve service quality and increase employee knowledge of food safety standards.
  • Oversaw inventory control practices, reducing waste and maintaining optimal stock levels.
  • Identified team weak points and implemented corrective actions to resolve concerns.
  • Delivered in-depth training to workers in food preparation and customer-facing roles to promote strong team performance.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback for professional growth.
  • Established rapport with guests through personalized interactions that led to repeat business.
  • Maintained positive relationships with vendors to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products at competitive prices.

Education

High School Diploma -

Polytech High School
Woodside, DE
06-2001

Skills

  • Customer service
  • Team leadership
  • Cooking techniques
  • Kitchen organization
  • Food preparation
  • Meal preparation
  • Kitchen management
  • Cost control
  • Food presentation
  • Nutrition
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Team collaboration
  • Labor management
  • Health and safety compliance
  • Inventory management

Certification

Serve Safe Certification

Timeline

Cook Shift Leader

Healthcare Services Group
11.2024 - Current

Head Cook

Sweets & Treats
10.2022 - 07.2023

Cook

Sportzone
02.2021 - 10.2022

Executive Sous Chef

Doc Mcgrogans
01.2010 - 04.2012

Restaurant Manager

Red Lobster
03.2001 - 07.2008

High School Diploma -

Polytech High School
Matthew Letterman