Jane Caruna
SAFI
Summary
Developed skills in dynamic culinary environment, including effective communication, team collaboration, and culinary creativity. Seeking to transition into new field, leveraging keen understanding of customer service and problem-solving abilities. Prepared to bring fresh perspective and adaptable skill set to any industry.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Corporate Speciality Dining Culinary Ambassador
Seabourn Cruise Line
08.2023 - Current
- Leading the traveling team for the roll out of the 4 Specialty Dining restaurants, onboard ocean vessels
- Integral role in training of the onboard teams for the roll out of the new concept of Specialty Dining Solis Restaurant
- Responsible for managing the culinary operations of four outlets on board four ocean vessels named Solis.
- Implement management tactics to maintain high standards and ensure culinary uniformity throughout the establishments.
- Monitor the food budget and team productivity.
- Oversee the continued growth of overall culinary operation, concerning cost, quality, presentation, and innovation.
- Deliver exceptional guest experiences by maintaining high culinary standards, responding proactively to guest feedback, and continuously striving to improve.
- Development for teams, building a motivated and high-performing kitchen team
- Crew planning and scheduling for over 50 Seabourn team members, primarily consisting of Chef de Cuisines and Chef de Parties.
- Collaborated with fellow chefs to develop seasonal menus for diverse clientele.
- Continually researched current food trends, incorporating new techniques into menu offerings where appropriate.
- Mentored junior staff members, providing guidance on recipe execution and kitchen etiquette.
- Implemented staff training programs to improve overall team performance in the kitchen environment.
- Streamlined food preparation processes to increase efficiency without compromising quality or presentation.
- Contributed to overall team success by stepping in and assisting with other kitchen duties as needed.
Product Development Chef
Maypole LTD Malta
12.2021 - 07.2023
- Oversee multiple outlets in various location around Malta
- Product Development for new openings and seasonal menu changes
- Develop menus for all outlets and special occasions requests for potential new clients
- Manage the NPD (new product development) Kitchen ensuring excellent standards are maintained at all times; Creative development resulting in the launch of new products in both current and new categories
- Worked closely with marketing in creating marketing campaigns for all outlets
- Expert food trend knowledge including tracking of food news/restaurant reviews
- Attendance at selective food exhibitions/shows/seminars and summarization of interesting ingredients/trends/products that could be of use across the business
- Support the concept team to meet & exceed customer expectations
- Participate in tastings to provide the team with trained culinary feedback
- Completion of accurate standardized recipe sheets and costings
- Establish and build relationships with key customers
- Understanding the wants and needs of both internal and external customers
- Train, develop and mentor team members
- Active participation in Kitchen designs and procurement of equipment
- Active participation in recruitment and employment expos.
- Performed research on latest technologies and current markets to develop new product concepts, successfully developing over new products.
- Enhanced product quality with rigorous testing and thorough evaluations of taste, texture, and presentation.
- Distributed new product specifications to sales, QA and purchasing departments.
- Managed food safety protocols to ensure compliance with industry standards during all stages of product development process.
- Sorted and ordered items for ingredient inventory.
- Implemented sustainable practices in product development, reducing environmental impact and waste.
- Mentored junior chefs on specialized techniques, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Established strong supplier relationships for timely procurement of ingredients at competitive prices.
- Supported marketing efforts with expert knowledge of flavor profiles, nutritional content, and consumer preferences.
- Contributed to overall brand reputation with high-quality products that reflected company values.
- Collaborated with operations and production teams for new product market research and product surveys.
- Developed innovative recipes by researching culinary trends and incorporating unique ingredients.
Chef De Cuisine
Muza Restaurant Valletta
01.2021 - 11.2021
- Optimized kitchen workflow by delegating tasks according to individual strengths, resulting in faster ticket times during peak hours.
- Maintained high levels of sanitation and cleanliness, adhering to strict health code regulations and ensuring a safe working environment.
- Participated in regular menu tastings with ownership and management to evaluate dishes for flavor balance, presentation, and ingredient quality.
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by creating innovative and visually appealing dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
- Managed budgetary constraints by negotiating favorable vendor contracts without sacrificing ingredient quality or availability during seasonal fluctuations.
- Increased overall food quality by sourcing premium ingredients from trusted suppliers while managing cost controls effectively.
- Reduced food waste through careful menu planning, portion control, and regular monitoring of product expiration dates.
- Implemented creative daily specials to showcase unique ingredients or techniques while maintaining consistent customer favorites.
- Continuously researched industry trends and new culinary techniques to stay ahead of competitors while maintaining an innovative edge within the dining scene.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and exceptional dining experiences for all customers.
Chef De Partie to Chef De Cuisine
Seabourn Cruise LIne
08.2012 - 01.2020
- Provided support in all areas of the kitchen as needed, demonstrating versatility and adaptability under pressure.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple stations during busy service periods.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Operated all kitchen equipment safely to prevent injuries.
- Rotated stock to use items before expiration date.
- Contributed to a positive kitchen atmosphere through effective communication and collaboration with team members.
- Complied with portion and serving sizes as per restaurant standards.
- Maintained high standards of cleanliness and organization, ensuring a safe and efficient workspace.
- Reduced food waste by carefully monitoring inventory levels and adjusting orders accordingly.
- Plated meals paying special attention to garnishes and overall presentation.
Education
Advanced National Diploma - Culinary Arts And Pastry Skills
Institute of Tourism Studies
Malta11.2003
High School Diploma -
Sir Adrian Dingli Girls Junior Lyceum
Malta06.1996
Skills
- Cooking methods
- Food presentation
- Allergen awareness
- Demonstration skills
- Cross-cultural communication
- Food pairing
- Menu development
- Recipe creation
- Brand representation
- Food photography
- Menu pricing
- Culinary techniques
- Dining facility management
- Managing dining facilities
- Team building
- Professionalism
- Time management abilities
- Problem-solving abilities
- Customer Satisfaction
- Sanitation Standards
Languages
Maltese
Native language
English
Proficient
C2
Italian
Proficient
C2
Timeline
Corporate Speciality Dining Culinary Ambassador
Seabourn Cruise Line
08.2023 - Current
Product Development Chef
Maypole LTD Malta
12.2021 - 07.2023
Chef De Cuisine
Muza Restaurant Valletta
01.2021 - 11.2021
Chef De Partie to Chef De Cuisine
Seabourn Cruise LIne
08.2012 - 01.2020
Advanced National Diploma - Culinary Arts And Pastry Skills
Institute of Tourism Studies
High School Diploma -
Sir Adrian Dingli Girls Junior Lyceum
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