Michelle Macdonald
Billingshurst,United Kingdom
Summary
Experienced professional with a strong background in resource management and decision-making, dedicated to maintaining quality assurance and accountability. Skilled in crafting and executing regional marketing strategies that drive results. Aims to utilize capabilities to support organizational growth and achieve key goals.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work history
Area Support Manager
Aspens Services Ltd
Guildford, UK
2023.05 - 2025.09
- Promoted to oversee 22 schools across Kent, Surrey, and Hampshire.
- Manage HR cases including disciplinaries, investigations, and absence.
- Delivered new client wins through successful bid presentations.
- Led mobilisations, staff training, compliance, and H&S initiatives.
- Increased sales through marketing campaigns and events.
- Winner of Aspens Best Side Kick Award (2024).
- Regularly deputised for Operations Manager, covering additional responsibilities.
Group Catering Manager
Aspens Services Ltd
2019.08 - 2023.05
- Improved gross profit across schools from ~40% to 60%+.
- Revitalised client relationships, securing contract extensions.
- Developed menus and theme days that were adopted company-wide.
- Raised EHO ratings to 5
- Across all managed units.
- Trained staff, enhancing cooking standards, confidence, and motivation.
Chef Manager
Aspens Services Ltd
2018.08 - 2019.08
- Achieved highest sales increase in the area and consistent GP targets.
- Planned menus, theme days, and new term menu cycles.
- Awarded 5
- EHO rating.
- Selected by MD for food trends programme to influence future menus.
Chef/Owner
Tailor-Made Food Delights
Horsham, UK
2016.10 - 2018.08
- Managed catering business, specialising in children’s parties and celebration cakes.
- Awarded 5
- Hygiene ratings (2016, 2018).
- Oversaw budgeting, cooking, and event catering logistics.
Company Secretary
MGCom Services
Horsham, UK
2012.05 - 2017.10
- Managed bookkeeping, VAT, PAYE, invoicing, and accounts.
Owner/Manager
Michelle Livery Yard and Groom Services
Rudgwick, UK
2008.12 - 2012.05
Office Manager
Phoenix Financial Recovery
Teddington, UK
2007.02 - 2008.10
Chef & Managerial Roles
Compass Group
London
2001.12 - 2007.02
- Progressed through Head Chef and Manager positions at high-profile schools and B&I sites.
- Doubled sales at Madame Tussauds and restored budget control.
- Boosted hospitality standards and sales at Mercury Interactive.
Chef Manager (Consultancy)
The 3 Horseshoes (Mac’s Inns Ltd)
2005.01 - 2006.01
Chef/Waitress
The Cottage Caterers
Surrey
1996.01 - 2001.01
Head Chef
HRH Duke & Duchess of Gloucester
Sandringham, UK
1996.06 - 1996.09
Education
Intensive Diploma - Double Credit
Tante Marie Culinary Academy
A-Levels & GCSEs - undefined
Farlington School
Skills
- Resource allocation expertise
- Decision-Making proficiency
- Quality assurance compliance
- Accountability and responsibility
- Regional marketing strategy
Interests
- Competitive horse owner with over 30 years’ experience
- Dinner parties
- Experimenting with new recipes
- Travelling
- Exploring cuisines
Timeline
Area Support Manager
Aspens Services Ltd
2023.05 - 2025.09
Group Catering Manager
Aspens Services Ltd
2019.08 - 2023.05
Chef Manager
Aspens Services Ltd
2018.08 - 2019.08
Chef/Owner
Tailor-Made Food Delights
2016.10 - 2018.08
Company Secretary
MGCom Services
2012.05 - 2017.10
Owner/Manager
Michelle Livery Yard and Groom Services
2008.12 - 2012.05
Office Manager
Phoenix Financial Recovery
2007.02 - 2008.10
Chef Manager (Consultancy)
The 3 Horseshoes (Mac’s Inns Ltd)
2005.01 - 2006.01
Chef & Managerial Roles
Compass Group
2001.12 - 2007.02
Head Chef
HRH Duke & Duchess of Gloucester
1996.06 - 1996.09
Chef/Waitress
The Cottage Caterers
1996.01 - 2001.01
A-Levels & GCSEs - undefined
Farlington School
Intensive Diploma - Double Credit
Tante Marie Culinary Academy