Executive Chef
Resume:
MICHAEL LOPATA
EXECUTIVE CHEF
CONTACT
PROFILE
******.**@*****.***
Accomplished Culinary Arts professional with 20 years of experience seeking an Executive Chef position. Aiming to utilize strong organizational and customer service skills, along with extensive training and a collaborative approach, to deliver exceptional cuisine and foster a welcoming dining environment where deliciousness is always served with graciousness
SKILLS
EXPERIENCE
Leadership and Management
Menu Development
Cost Control/Inventory Management
Food Safety and Compliance
ServSafe Certified
Training and Mentorship of Staff
Event Catering for 300+ Guests
Performance Executive Chef, Minnesota Vikings
Eagan, MN
November 2023-Present
As the Performance Executive Chef for the Minnesota Vikings, I successfully navigate the rigors and demands of cooking for professional athletes, showcasing my immense culinary aptitude in a fast-paced environment. I design and execute personalized meal plans tailored to the unique dietary needs and requests of our Performance team, ensuring optimal nutrition for peak athletic performance. In addition, I manage the culinary operations for the corporate café, serving a diverse menu that changes daily for 300 office staff members, Monday through Friday, year-round. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, creativity, and the ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.
Chef de Cuisine, Dellwood Country Club
Dellwood, MN
January 2022 – October 2023
As Chef de Cuisine at Dellwood Country Club, I oversaw all culinary operations, including menu development, food preparation, and kitchen management. I led a team of culinary professionals to deliver exceptional dining experiences for members and guests, ensuring high standards of quality and presentation. Responsibilities included sourcing high-quality ingredients, managing inventory and food costs, and creating seasonal menus that catered to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. I also collaborated with event planners to design and execute customized catering for special events, maintaining a focus on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Senior Sous Chef, Facebook/Meta
Seattle, WA
September 2019-December 2021
As Senior Sous Chef at Facebook, I managed culinary operations across 12 campuses, overseeing the production of 5,000 meals daily. I was responsible for creating eclectic menus that showcased global cuisine, with offerings that changed daily to enhance dining experiences. Emphasizing quality and authenticity, all dressings, sauces, and breads were made in-house, reflecting our commitment to fresh, flavorful ingredients. I maintained extensive communication with our commissary kitchen and delivery team to ensure timely and safe preparation and distribution of meals to all campuses. Additionally, I diligently maintained accurate food safety logs for transport, receiving, and on-site storage, ensuring compliance with health standards, both internally and on the city/county scale.
Chef, Tom Douglas Restaurants
Seattle, WA
During my 10 years with renowned James Beard Award-winning chef Tom Douglas, I had the privilege of being part of the opening team for five restaurants, gaining invaluable insights into the complexities and challenges of launching culinary concepts under a celebrated chef. As the sole hybrid Chef/General Manager in the company while opening and operating Assembly Hall, I successfully managed day-to-day operations for both front and back of house, honing my leadership skills and operational expertise. This experience not only deepened my culinary knowledge but also shaped my approach to hospitality and teamwork, solidifying my foundation as a versatile and accomplished culinary professional. Working alongside Chef Douglas and his esteemed team has profoundly influenced my career, inspiring my commitment to excellence and innovation in every aspect of the dining experience.
Additional Experience:
Available upon request for prior work experience spanning over 20 year culinary career.
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