Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Justin Smith

Loughborough

Summary

Takes on challenging new role harnessing interpersonal skills, collaboration and problem-solving. Driven to deliver high-quality service and consistent results.

Loyal employee with solid understanding of training and mentoring employees. Dedicated team player, proactive and hands-on in task completion.

Innovative professional with flair for creativity and leadership in culinary settings. Possesses strong skills in team management and menu development, ensuring high-quality dining experiences. Committed to elevating kitchen operations and enhancing guest satisfaction through exceptional cuisine.

Overview

35
35
years of professional experience

Work history

Mobilisation Executive Chef

IFG
All Areas in the UK
2022.01 - Current

In this role I work closely with the development food team to trial new menus and twice a year on our menu launch we cook the new items for all new staff, CEO and higher management in IFG, mobilise new contracts, train and set our brand standards with in the school kitchens along side doing audits every term in all my 25 schools.

Kitchen manager

Dine Contract Catering
Coventry
2015.07 - 2022.12
  • Conducted regular inventory checks for more accurate stock control.
  • Coordinated with suppliers for timely ingredient deliveries, avoiding shortages or interruptions in service.
  • Trained new hires on kitchen procedures, ensuring seamless integration into the team.
  • Managed daily kitchen operations efficiently whilst maintaining high quality standards.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by implementing new organisational strategies.
  • Delegated tasks wisely amongst staff members; created balance and harmony in the workplace.
  • Created dishes for special events, impressing guests and elevating the restaurant's reputation.
  • Developed a superb rapport with staff to encourage better teamwork and productivity.
  • Organised staff rotas to ensure adequate coverage during all operating hours.
  • Updated menus seasonally for fresh dining options and improved customer experience.
  • Led regular staff meetings; encouraged open communication and problem-solving initiatives.
  • Maintained cleanliness of kitchen area, meeting health and safety regulations consistently.
  • Set kitchen standards governing cooking procedures, garnishes and food presentation.
  • Developed menus for continuous use, events and promotions for different seasons.

Head chef

Blue Arrow Agency
Leicester
2010.06 - 2014.01

Covering all levels of chefs all over Leicestershire in all areas of the industry.

Small business owner

Jsmedical
All over the UK
2003.04 - 2010.05

I set up a first aid business Jsmedical covering first aid at events and selling first aid supplies.

Head chef

Management Co
Country wide
1998.10 - 2003.01

Management Co was a once in a life time job where we worked with celebrity chefs. We had to battle positions to work with the chefs. Whilst working for this company I had the privilege to work with

Paul Rankin

Keith Floyd

Ainsley Harriett

and a few not so well know chefs

When bidding for work we had to research the chefs and do a minimum of 3 cook off days with the final day cooking actually for the chef you might be working for. If you get through for 2 days before the date the event is held we travel around the country finding the highest quality and freshest product for the menu. The reason for leaving is the business closed down.

Sous chef

The Red Cow L.F.E
Leicester
1993.03 - 1998.06
  • Assisted head chef in menu development, resulting in innovative dining experiences.
  • Delivered consistent culinary excellence to diners through attention to detail in plating and presentation.
  • Collaborated closely with front-of-house team, ensuring seamless service delivery.
  • Contributed creative ideas for special events menus, providing memorable dining experiences for guests.
  • Delegated tasks to junior chefs for efficient kitchen operations.
  • Trained junior kitchen staff in food preparation and hygiene practices.
  • Supported head chef with stock control and rotation, minimising waste with FIFO systems.
  • Acted as head chef when required, maintaining continuity of service and quality.

Trainee Chef

Stakis Hotel
Leicester
1991.09 - 1993.02
  • Prepared ingredients for complex meals, reducing chef's workload.
  • Maintained clean work area, promoting an organised kitchen environment.
  • Developed understanding of diverse cuisines to create exciting menu options.

Education

A&E First Responder - Paramedic Science

NHS
Leicester
1995-03

NVQ Level 2 - Catering

Hotel & Catering Training Company
Leicester
1991-08

Skills

  • Asian cuisine proficiency
  • Customer satisfaction focus
  • Culinary creativity
  • Advanced baking techniques
  • Elite dining experience creation
  • Food presentation artistry
  • Gourmet cooking
  • Special dietary requirements understanding
  • Menu development proficiency
  • Gross profit and menu costing
  • High-volume production
  • Staff training and development
  • Allergen awareness
  • Quality Control

Timeline

Mobilisation Executive Chef

IFG
2022.01 - Current

Kitchen manager

Dine Contract Catering
2015.07 - 2022.12

Head chef

Blue Arrow Agency
2010.06 - 2014.01

Small business owner

Jsmedical
2003.04 - 2010.05

Head chef

Management Co
1998.10 - 2003.01

Sous chef

The Red Cow L.F.E
1993.03 - 1998.06

Trainee Chef

Stakis Hotel
1991.09 - 1993.02

A&E First Responder - Paramedic Science

NHS

NVQ Level 2 - Catering

Hotel & Catering Training Company
Justin Smith