Denisa Axinte
Manchester,Great Manchester
Summary
Experienced chef with a strong background in high-volume, fast-paced kitchens, including branded restaurants and large-scale stadium operations. Progressed from chef to junior and sous chef, demonstrating leadership, organization, and a commitment to quality. Highly skilled in all kitchen sections, with proven experience managing shifts, training staff, and maintaining strict food safety and HACCP standards. Adaptable and effective in delivering consistent results under pressure while enhancing team performance and guest satisfaction.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Junior sous chef
Fenix
Manchester
2023.10 - Current
- Coordinated kitchen workflow by placing orders to maintain service efficiency.
- Managed high-volume service, covering all sections with confidence and precision.
- Trained new team members for seamless onboarding.
- Conducted daily briefings on bookings, service expectations, and breaks.
- Completed stock counts and aided inventory management.
- Led pass operations, coordinating dishes to fulfill orders accurately.
- Maintained clear communication with expo and front-of-house for smooth service.
- Communicated allergy requirements, prioritising guest safety.
Chef de partie
chefs bay
Manchester
2022.09 - Current
- Delivered high-volume service to over 200 guests during match day events.
- Plated desserts, cheese boards, and starters according to set menus while ensuring presentation consistency.
- Prepared and organised service sections, guaranteeing full readiness before peak periods.
- Led and supported new chefs at Manchester United, clearly explaining roles and service flow.
- Provided direct customer service at Liverpool FC in a street food-style lobby environment.
- Maintained efficiency, cleanliness, and food safety standards in fast-paced, high-pressure settings.
Sous chef
wagamama
Manchester
2017.06 - 2023.10
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of Wagamama food ingredients and cooking techniques.
- Collaborated with head chef to train and develop kitchen team, ensuring quality across all dishes.
- Managed stock counts and placed accurate orders to maintain availability and minimise waste.
- Monitored and recorded food temperatures in compliance with HACCP requirements throughout shifts.
- Identified, reported, and followed up on maintenance and equipment issues promptly.
- Conducted interviews for new kitchen team members to enhance workforce capabilities.
- Supervised and assessed candidates during trial shifts to evaluate performance.
- Handled food complaints professionally, ensuring customer satisfaction and adherence to brand standards.
Junior sous chef
wagamama
Leicester
2016.09 - 2017.05
- Maintained high standards across all kitchen sections during service.
- Ran shifts independently, delegating tasks and coordinating team workflow effectively.
- Planned daily staffing, assigning team members based on service requirements.
- Oversaw stock levels and preparation to ensure full menu availability for next day.
- Supported 20+ Wagamama sites across England, adapting to diverse teams and environments.
- Selected for national training team, contributing to company-wide training initiatives.
- Trained, onboarded, and mentored new staff members to enhance team performance.
- Consistently adhered to food safety, health and safety, and brand standards throughout shifts.
Chef de partie
Yo sushi
Leicester
2015.06 - 2016.09
- Prepared a diverse selection of sushi rolls according to brand standards.
- Cooked and served dishes across hot and cold sections, ensuring quality presentation.
- Safely handled and prepared fresh fish and vegetables, adhering to hygiene regulations.
- Maintained effective communication and collaboration with front-of-house staff for seamless service.
Education
bachelor degrees - foreign languages
Pedagogic High school
Focsani, Romania 2006.09 - 2010.06
Skills
- Staff training and development
- Food preparation and safety
- Kitchen operations management
- COSHH and food allergens knowledge
- Motivational team leadership
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
Timeline
Junior sous chef
Fenix
2023.10 - Current
Chef de partie
chefs bay
2022.09 - Current
Sous chef
wagamama
2017.06 - 2023.10
Junior sous chef
wagamama
2016.09 - 2017.05
Chef de partie
Yo sushi
2015.06 - 2016.09
bachelor degrees - foreign languages
Pedagogic High school
2006.09 - 2010.06