David Underwood
Cambridge
Summary
Over 25 years in the food industry, consistently delivering excellence in kitchen operations and team leadership.
Proven ability to manage food businesses, overseeing operations, payroll, and HR for teams of up to 15 staff.
Strong communication skills foster effective collaboration between kitchen and front-of-house management.
Resilient under pressure, adept at building supplier networks and ensuring product quality.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work history
Owner / Director
Cambridge Sauce / Orriss & Son
Cambridge
2013.08 - Current
- Developed comprehensive business strategies to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Implemented marketing initiatives that increased brand awareness and customer engagement.
- Cultivated strong relationships with suppliers and partners to optimise procurement processes.
- Established long-term partnerships with clients, fostering customer loyalty and repeat business.
Head chef
Chater's
Saffron Walden
2024.07 - 2025.10
- Developed and implemented seasonal menus that showcased local ingredients and culinary trends.
- Coordinated with suppliers to source fresh produce and maintain optimal inventory levels.
- Trained junior chefs in cooking techniques, presentation skills, and kitchen operations.
- Collaborated with front-of-house team to ensure seamless service and customer satisfaction.
Sous chef
Provenance Kitchen
Whittlesford, Cambridge
2022.04 - 2023.04
- Assisted in preparation and presentation of high-quality dishes in accordance with menu specifications.
- Ensured kitchen cleanliness and adherence to food safety regulations throughout service periods.
- Collaborated with head chef to develop new menu items and seasonal specials reflecting local ingredients.
- Supervised kitchen staff during service, providing guidance and support to maintain efficient workflow.
Chef owner / Partner
Steak & Honour
Cambridge
2014.02 - 2020.09
- Managed daily operations to ensure efficient workflow and customer satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
- Oversaw scheduling and logistics to optimise resource allocation and delivery times.
- Trained and mentored staff to improve skills and ensure adherence to company standards.
- Collaborated with suppliers and partners to negotiate favourable terms and strengthen relationships.
- Maintained accurate records of inventory and equipment usage to facilitate efficient operations.
Skills
- Customer feedback response
- Restaurant marketing savvy
- Knife handling techniques
- Special dietary cooking
- Communication with Front Of House
- Multitasking under pressure
- Menu planning competence
- Training and mentoring talent
Websites
Affiliations
- My Kids (Felix 12, Theo 10, Luna 8), Food (restaurants, cooking for family / friends), Physical activity (gym, running, swimming), Music (seeing live), Travel (Europe, city breaks etc.)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Head chef
Chater's
2024.07 - 2025.10
Sous chef
Provenance Kitchen
2022.04 - 2023.04
Chef owner / Partner
Steak & Honour
2014.02 - 2020.09
Owner / Director
Cambridge Sauce / Orriss & Son
2013.08 - Current