Culinary Specialist Local & International Cuisine

SYLVIA WANJIKU KANG’ETHE

Mobile Number: +*** (0-729-***-***

Email Address: ***********@*****.***

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Dynamic and skilled chef with a comprehensive background in culinary arts, specializing in local and international cuisine. Experienced in managing kitchen operations, preparing diverse menus, and coordinating events. Highly adaptable, creative, and committed to maintaining a high standard of food quality and presentation. Proven ability to anticipate client needs, deliver exceptional dishes under time constraints, and work discreetly in prestigious settings.

CORE COMPETENCIES

●Kitchen Management: Expertise in overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations, including staff coordination, inventory management, and food preparation.

●Menu Planning: Proficient in creating tailored menus for diverse events and clientele, with a focus on local and international cuisines.

●Event Catering: Experience in planning, preparing, and serving meals for private events, buffets, and formal gatherings.

●Creativity & Innovation: Strong ability to create unique culinary experiences that meet client preferences while promoting international gastronomy.

●Team Leadership: Skilled in managing kitchen staff, delegating tasks, and ensuring smooth coordination with service teams.

●High Standards of Hygiene & Safety: Committed to maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment, adhering to strict food safety regulations.

●Discretion & Confidentiality: Ability to maintain high levels of discretion in a private, high-profile setting, ensuring client satisfaction and confidentiality.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Personal Chef

Charles Njonjo Residence, Shavania House, Muthaiga

March 2022 - March 2023

●Managed day-to-day kitchen operations, including menu planning and food preparation for the household.

●Coordinated with the caretaker to ensure seamless food service for all meals, including breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and special events.

●Responsible for food stock management, ordering, and inventory, ensuring all food items were fresh and available.

●Maintained high cleanliness standards for kitchen and food preparation areas.

●Crafted bespoke dishes, often including English and international cuisines, based on the family’s tastes and preferences.

Personal Assistant and Chef

Private Client, Diani

July 2021 - January 2022

●Prepared a wide variety of meals based on client preferences, including family meals and event catering.

●Collaborated with clients to plan menus for events and ensured all food and beverage requirements were met.

●Managed food budgeting, shopping, and sourcing high-quality ingredients.

●Assisted clients with organizing children’s menus and hosting guests for events, ensuring all culinary needs were met with discretion.

Commis Chef

Artcaffé Coffee and Bakery

July 2016 - July 2017

●Worked across various kitchen stations, including grill, sauté, and salad, delivering high-quality dishes in a fast-paced environment.

●Supported the preparation of daily menu items and maintained cleanliness and organization in the kitchen.

●Assisted senior chefs in the preparation of meals during peak hours, ensuring efficiency and quality.

Intern Chef

Villa Rosa Kempinski

March 2015 - September 2015

●Performed mise-en-place for various kitchen stations and ensured smooth preparation of a la carte orders.

●Worked on breakfast and lunch buffets, coordinating with the kitchen team to ensure timely service and high food standards.

●Assisted in food preparation, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and sauces, adhering to the hotel's luxury standards.

EDUCATION

●Higher National Diploma (HND) in Culinary Arts

International Hotel and Tourism Institute (IHTI) January 2013 - July 2014

●Diploma in Journalism

Kenya Institute of Mass Communication September 2009 - July 2012

●Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)

Ngara Girls High School 2005 - 2008

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

Volunteer

Tanari Trust Kenya & Eseriani Place Kenya

●Worked with children, pre-teens, and teenagers, teaching life skills and providing support through community outreach programs.

●Contributed to the donation of food and essential items to underprivileged groups.

Front Desk Attendee

Racing Sport Gym

January 2018 - October 2018

●Managed client relations, including handling inquiries, complaints, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

●Created content for company newsletters and contributed to brand visibility.

REFEREES

●Mrs. Margaret Njonjo Shavania House Muthaiga Mobile: +254 (0-733-***-***

●Angela Mutheu Manager, Kivulini Beach Villas

Mobile: +254 (0-725-***-***

●Kimberly Wilson Private Client

Mobile: +1-609-***-****

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