Daryl Stephens
Summary
Hardworking and adaptable professional with 15+ years in hospitality and food production. Experienced in team leadership, machine operation, production planning and maintaining excellent hygiene standards. Skilled in leading and developing teams and driving continuous improvement, resulting in significant gains in efficiency, downtime reduction and output. Excellent knowledge of health & safety standards with additional fast-paced hospitality experience. Recognised for reliability problem-solving under pressure, and delivering results in demanding environments.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work history
Team leader
Dr. Oetker
Leyland, Lancashire
06.2022 - 04.2025
- Lead team of 6 production operatives, ensuring daily output targets were met while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
- Coordinated shift schedules, resource allocation, and training for team members.
- Monitored production KPI's and implemented improvements that reduced downtime/waste/defects.
- Conducted performance reviews, mentored staff and resolved operational issues promptly.
- Enforced health & safety and hygiene standards through HAACP.
Production planner
Dr. Oetker
Leyland, Lancashire
08.2020 - 06.2022
- Developed and managed production schedules to meet customer demand while optimising machine and labour efficiency.
- Liaised between production, supply chain, and sales teams to balance stock levels and minimise waste.
- Analysed production data and forecasts to adjust plans in real time.
Reduced scheduling errors with attention to detail.
Machine operator
Dr. Oetker
Leyland, Lancashire
05.2015 - 08.2020
- One of only three employees selected to research, write, and standardise SOP's for all machinery in the department, enhancing safety, quality consistency, and training effectiveness.
- Operated and set up a range of high speed production machinery, consistently achieving output targets.
- Performed routine maintenance, troubleshooting and quality checks to ensure minimum downtime.
- Trained and supported new operators on machine processes and safety procedures.
- Maintained accurate production records and adhered to strict food safety standards.
Production operative
Dr. Oetker
Leyland, Lancashire
12.2012 - 05.2015
- Worked on the production line, carrying out manufacturing, packing and palletising tasks to required safety standards.
- Met daily production and efficiency targets in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
- Followed all health, safety and hygiene procedures.
Supported continuous improvement initiatives and team objectives.
Builder's labourer
CC Building Solutions
Tyldesley, Wigan
09.2012 - 12.2012
- Provided reliable support to builders and decorators across multiple sites, handling materials, site preparation and clean-up.
- Gained practical experience in plastering, painting preparation, and general construction tasks.
- Maintained high health & safety standards and contributed to efficient project delivery in a fast-paced environment.
Crew member
McDonald's
Leyland, Lancashire
01.2009 - 09.2012
- Received multiple Employee of the Month awards in recognition of outstanding customer service, teamwork, and consistent high-performance in a fast-paced environment.
- Delivered excellent customer service in a high-volume, fast-paced environment, consistently handling 100+ customers per hour during peak times.
- Worked efficiently as part of a team of 10-20 to prepare, cook, and serve food while maintaining strict food safety and hygiene standards.
- Operated tills, processed payments accurately, and resolved customer queries and complaints professionally to ensure high satisfaction.
- Demonstrated adaptability by working across multiple stations.
- Developed strong teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills under pressure.
Kitchen porter
Robin Hood Inn
Mawdesley, Lancashire
02.2008 - 12.2008
- Demonstrated reliability through consistent attendance and proactive approach supporting wider team.
- Developed strong time-management and teamwork skills while working under pressure.
- Supported the chef and kitchen team by preparing workstations and maintaining hygiene standards.
- Unloaded deliveries, stored items properly for easy accessibility.
Education
GCSEs -
Worden Sports College
LeylandIn House training
Skills
- Decisive decision-making
- Employee coaching and mentorship
- Communication excellence
- Process improvement understanding
- Leadership proficiency
- Policy implementation and enforcement
Affiliations
I am a keen sportsman and i spend my spare time playing football and watching sport.
Hold a clean UK driving licence.
Timeline
Team leader
Dr. Oetker
06.2022 - 04.2025
Production planner
Dr. Oetker
08.2020 - 06.2022
Machine operator
Dr. Oetker
05.2015 - 08.2020
Production operative
Dr. Oetker
12.2012 - 05.2015
Builder's labourer
CC Building Solutions
09.2012 - 12.2012
Crew member
McDonald's
01.2009 - 09.2012
Kitchen porter
Robin Hood Inn
02.2008 - 12.2008
GCSEs -
Worden Sports College
In House training