Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Certification
Affiliations
References
Timeline
Generic

Christopher Swallow

London

Summary

Experienced manager and assistant manager in branded establishments such as Costa Coffee, Heavenly Desserts, and Afrikana Peri and Grill. Proven track record in leadership roles, including Kitchen Manager and General Manager at various independent cafes and restaurants. Demonstrated ability to enhance operational efficiency and drive team performance in fast-paced environments.

Passionate gamer with extensive experience in both video and board games, complemented by a strong collection. Creative individual with a background in writing, music, and art, demonstrating a commitment to artistic expression. Enthusiastic about exploring new gaming trends and engaging with diverse creative mediums.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification

Work history

Kitchen manager

Afrikana Peri and Grill
London, Greater London
04.2024 - 07.2025
  • Ensured food safety standards were met, preventing possible foodborne illnesses.
  • Identified necessary equipment repairs before breakdowns could disrupt service.
  • Conducted regular inventory checks for more accurate stock control.
  • Managed daily kitchen operations efficiently whilst maintaining high quality standards.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by implementing new organizational strategies.
  • Created dishes for special events, impressing guests and elevating the restaurant's reputation.
  • Collaborated with front-of-house team to ensure smooth service during peak hours.
  • Ensured Kitchen Rota was available at least two weeks in advance
  • Involved in the creation of a branch wide new brunch menu implemented in November 2024
  • Looked out for the wellbeing of all staff

General manager

Heavenly Desserts, Walthamstow
London, Greater London
09.2020 - 04.2024
  • Identified new business opportunities, leading to market expansion.
  • Regularly reviewed performance data, driving continuous improvement efforts.
  • Established successful partnerships with other companies for mutual growth.
  • Improved staff retention with robust HR policies and procedures.
  • Introduced effective cost control measures, reducing unnecessary expenditure.
  • Sourced local suppliers for fresh produce
  • Established a positive work environment which promoted staff morale and productivity.
  • Directed day-to-day work of seventeen employees and motivated teams to exceed objectives.
  • Worked with Social Media Team, to create ads promoting my own store and the brand
  • Held Influencer events to increase awareness of the store and the brand

Head Chef and Kitchen Manager

Elsie, Hornsey
London, Greater London
08.2018 - 09.2020
  • Coordinated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service delivery.
  • Delivered consistently tasty meals by adhering to recipe instructions.
  • Maintained exemplary hygiene standards in the kitchen area.
  • Demonstrated culinary expertise in various cuisines whilst maintaining authenticity.
  • Developed seasonal menus to offer variety and freshness in dishes served.
  • Assisted restaurant manager in cost control strategies implementation.

Kitchen Manger

Fresh Ground London, Clapham
London, Greater London
11.2015 - 08.2018
  • Streamlined meal preparation process to reduce guest wait times.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by implementing new organisational strategies.
  • Implemented waste reduction measures resulting in cost savings and environmental benefits.
  • Trained new hires on kitchen procedures, ensuring seamless integration into the team.
  • Planned menus with diverse and seasonal dishes using locally sourced produce.

Education

Access to Higher Education - English Literature, History, Sociology

RCAT
Rotherham
09.2014 - 06.2015

A-Levels - Theatre Studies

Sheffield College
Sheffield
09.1999 - 06.2000

BTEC - Performing Arts and Media

Sheffield College, Norton
Sheffield
09.1996 - 06.1998

Skills

  • Budgeting and purchasing
  • Food safety certification
  • Leadership proficiency
  • Familiarity with catering operations
  • Able to prioritise tasks
  • Clear decision-making
  • Portion control understanding
  • Stock control expertise
  • Calm under pressure
  • Staff motivation
  • Allergen awareness

Certification

Food Hygiene Level 2 and 3,

First Aid Training,

Fire Marshal,

Allergy Awareness,

COSHH,

Affiliations

Board and Collectable Card Games

Video Gaming Both Modern and Retro

Avid Reader

Walking

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Kitchen manager

Afrikana Peri and Grill
04.2024 - 07.2025

General manager

Heavenly Desserts, Walthamstow
09.2020 - 04.2024

Head Chef and Kitchen Manager

Elsie, Hornsey
08.2018 - 09.2020

Kitchen Manger

Fresh Ground London, Clapham
11.2015 - 08.2018

Access to Higher Education - English Literature, History, Sociology

RCAT
09.2014 - 06.2015

A-Levels - Theatre Studies

Sheffield College
09.1999 - 06.2000

BTEC - Performing Arts and Media

Sheffield College, Norton
09.1996 - 06.1998

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Christopher Swallow