Matthew Lyons
Torquay
Summary
I am a motivated and people-focused individual looking to transition into a safeguarding or SEN support role within education. With a strong background in leadership, compliance and team management across hospitality and production settings, I have developed a calm, empathetic and structured approach to supporting others. I am passionate about promoting wellbeing, maintaining high safeguarding standards and contributing to an inclusive learning environment.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Sous Chef
The Seahorse Restaurant
Dartmouth
2013.04 - 2021.11
- I began my career at The Seahorse as a Commis Chef and progressed to Sous Chef over nine years, developing strong culinary, leadership and organisational skills along the way. During my time there, I worked across all sections of the kitchen, supporting daily operations, maintaining high food standards and ensuring strict compliance with health and safety regulations.
- As I progressed into senior roles, my responsibilities expanded to include supervising junior staff, contributing to menu development, managing stock control and supporting service during high-pressure periods. I was also fortunate to work closely with renowned chefs such as Mark Hix, Angela Hartnett, Nathan Outlaw, Mitch Tonks and Rick Stein, gaining invaluable experience and insight into high-quality seafood-focused cuisine and professional kitchen leadership.
Production Supervisor
Rockfish Quayside
Brixham
2021.11 - 2025.08
- As Production Supervisor, I was responsible for overseeing daily production operations and managing a team to ensure efficiency, quality and adherence to company standards. My role involved coordinating workflow, maintaining clear communication across departments and supporting staff performance and development. I regularly prepared rotas, conducted stock taking and implemented effective stock control procedures to minimise waste and maintain supply levels.
- I was also fully responsible for health and safety compliance across the site, leading quarterly audits and ensuring all processes met the standards required to uphold MSC and SALSA accreditation. This required strong attention to detail, thorough documentation and a proactive approach to risk management.
Wholesale Account Manager
Rockfish Quayside
Brixham
2025.08 - 2026.02
- As a Wholesale Account Manager, I am responsible for managing and developing relationships with a variety of clients including Fortnum & Mason, ensuring high levels of service and customer satisfaction. I acted as the main point of contact for accounts, handling enquiries, negotiating terms, prices and coordinating orders to meet specific needs.
- The role required strong communication and organisational skills, balancing multiple accounts while maintaining accurate records and meeting sales targets. I worked closely with internal teams to ensure smooth operations, resolve issues efficiently and identify opportunities for growth within existing accounts.
Education
GCSEs - Maths
Dartmouth Academy
Dartmouth, Devon 09/2011 - 09/2012
VRQ Level 1 - Hospitality & Catering
South Devon College
Paignton 09/2012 - 09/2013
GCSEs - English
Dartmouth Academy
Dartmouth, Devon 09/2011 - 09/2012
NVQ Level 2 - Hospitality & Catering
South Devon College
Paignton 09/2013 - 09/2014
Skills
- Team leadership and staff supervision
- Compliance and policy adherence
- Risk assessment and health & safety management
- Performance monitoring and quality control
- Relationship building and communication
- Conflict resolution and complaint management
- Accurate record-keeping and reporting
- Time management in fast-paced environments
- Microsoft and IT skills
- Commitment and loyalty to the workplace
Certification
- First Aid Certified
- Intermediate HACCP Level 2
- Food Safety Level 2
- Full UK Driving Licence (Clean)
- 13 years’ service with the Rockfish Group
Personal Interests & Activities
- Football coaching (U12/13) – Volunteered as a coach for a youth team, planning training sessions and supporting player development; DBS checked and experienced in working safely with children. Completed the FA safeguarding & disability training.
- Marathon training – Actively training for long-distance events, demonstrating dedication, resilience and long-term goal-setting.
- Family life – Proud father to five children (and our Cockapoo Maple..), which has strengthened my organisational, multitasking and patience skills.
- Travel – Well travelled throughout Europe and New Zealand, enhancing cultural awareness, adaptability and confidence in diverse environments.
References
- Daniel, Newman, General Manager, Dan@therockfish.co.uk, 07803576457, Rockfish Quayside, Line Manager, 2021, Present
- Mat, Prowse, Managing Director, Mat@mitchtonks.co.uk, 07967057888, The Seahorse Restaurant & Rockfish Quayside, Managing Director, 2013, Present
- Jake, Bridgwood, Ex Head Chef, Jake@thewanderingcook.co.uk, 07581566886, The Seahorse Restaurant, Head Chef, 2013, 2021
Timeline
Wholesale Account Manager
Rockfish Quayside
2025.08 - 2026.02
Production Supervisor
Rockfish Quayside
2021.11 - 2025.08
Sous Chef
The Seahorse Restaurant
2013.04 - 2021.11
GCSEs - Maths
Dartmouth Academy
09/2011 - 09/2012
VRQ Level 1 - Hospitality & Catering
South Devon College
09/2012 - 09/2013
GCSEs - English
Dartmouth Academy
09/2011 - 09/2012
NVQ Level 2 - Hospitality & Catering
South Devon College
09/2013 - 09/2014