Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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Anna Kalicka

Eastbourne

Summary

Experienced hospitality professional and former business owner with over 20 years in customer-facing and operational roles, now transitioning into the public sector with a focus on staff wellbeing and support. Brings a calm, empathetic approach, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage sensitive conversations with discretion and care. Proven track record of working independently, solving problems under pressure, and building trust in fast-paced environments. Holds academic foundations in philosophy and food science, with a personal interest in psychology and mental health. Passionate about creating positive, supportive workplaces and making a meaningful difference in people’s professional lives.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Owner

Self Employed
, East Sussex
02.2022 - 03.2025
  • Founded and managed boutique coffee shop, overseeing daily operations with emphasis on customer experience.
  • Developed original food and drink recipes, creating seasonal menus tailored to customer preferences.
  • Managed budgeting, cost control, and supplier relationships to ensure sustained profitability.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service through direct engagement in front-of-house responsibilities.
  • Designed and updated menus, balancing creativity with operational efficiency.
  • Executed administrative functions, including inventory management, ordering, scheduling, and compliance.
  • Led business planning and promotions to enhance visibility and foster local engagement.
  • Maintained accurate financial records by tracking margins and reviewing performance monthly.

Sous chef

Roedean School, Brighton
Brighton, Brighton and Hove
09.2014 - 12.2021
  • Executed food preparation, cooking, and serving for up to 600 customers.
  • Designed menus considering budget limits and dietary specifications.
  • Supervised kitchen during Head Chef's absence to uphold operational standards.
  • Instructed new staff on essential culinary practices.
  • Developed unique flavour profiles for signature dishes, enhancing customer satisfaction.
  • Worked under pressure during peak hours whilst maintaining composure and efficiency.
  • Engaged in problem-solving and communication among team members.
  • Conducted staff training sessions to enhance culinary skills and knowledge.

Relief & Agency Chef

Various Employers
London & East Sussex
06.2005 - 05.2014
  • Delivered high-quality food service in diverse settings, including fine dining and public institutions.
  • Managed individual kitchen sections and full operations, specialising in pastry and hot sections.
  • Served as Training Sous Chef at Searcys, supporting new staff onboarding while ensuring performance standards.
  • Created and executed menus, oversaw stock management, and maintained food quality compliance.
  • Adapted to varied team dynamics, excelling under pressure to enhance service efficiency.
  • Developed expertise in food preparation, critical thinking, and creative problem solving.
  • Executed long-term and short-term contracts with leading agencies like Reed and Blue Arrow.
  • Key venues included The Ritz Hotel and Searcys at St. Pancras Grand, among others.

Education

Bachelor of Science - BS, Food Science

London South Bank University
London
10.2012 - 05.2013

Foundation Degree in Arts - Culinary Arts

London South Bank University
London
09.2010 - 07.2012

Master of Arts - Philosophy

Uniwersytet Szczecinski
Poland
10.1998 - 07.2003

Skills

    Empathy & Active Listening

    Communication & Interpersonal Skills

    Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving

    Confidentiality & Discretion

    Autonomous Working & Accountability

    Time Management & Prioritization

    Training & Mentoring

    Record Keeping & Organisation

    Adaptability & Resilience

    Technical proficiency

Languages

Polish
Native
English
Fluent

Timeline

Owner

Self Employed
02.2022 - 03.2025

Sous chef

Roedean School, Brighton
09.2014 - 12.2021

Bachelor of Science - BS, Food Science

London South Bank University
10.2012 - 05.2013

Foundation Degree in Arts - Culinary Arts

London South Bank University
09.2010 - 07.2012

Relief & Agency Chef

Various Employers
06.2005 - 05.2014

Master of Arts - Philosophy

Uniwersytet Szczecinski
10.1998 - 07.2003
Anna Kalicka