Culinary Operations and Food Service Leader

JasonFugate

North Canton, ***** OH 234-***-**** *************@*****.***

Professional Summary

Seasoned Culinary and Food Service Professional with over 20 years of progressive

leadership at AVI Foodsystems, specializing in food production, team training, kitchen

operations, and customer service excellence. Proven track record in improving kitchen

efficiency, enhancing customer satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams. Adept in

menu development, inventory control, compliance, and business development strategies.

ServSafe Manager Certified. Seeking to leverage culinary expertise and operational

management skills in a business development or food service leadership role.

Core Competencies

Team Training

Event Catering

Merchandising

Sales Forecasting

Customer Service

Vendor Negotiation

Menu Development

Culinary Operations

Kitchen Management

Inventory Management

Food Safety Compliance

Business Development Strategy

Professional Experience

KITCHEN MANAGER / COOK / SUPERVISOR / TRAINER 08/2001 - Current

AVI Foodsystems, Inc. - Canton, OH

Led culinary operations for Aultman Hospital, managing food production and patient

meal prep.

Designed and introduced menu items, increasing meal satisfaction and sales.

Trained and supervised kitchen staff, boosting team efficiency and reducing turnover.

Maintained safety compliance and conducted weekly inventory reviews.

Supported job coaching and staff development, aiding hiring and retention.

Standardized recipes and presentation, enhancing consistency and service quality.

ASSISTANT PRODUCE MANAGER 07/2021 - 12/2023

Fisher Foods - Canton, OH

Oversaw daily produce operations, ordering, and merchandising.

Built vendor relationships and optimized department profitability.

Conducted inventory audits, trained staff, and ensured sanitation compliance.

SOUS CHEF 06/2016 - 08/2018

Gervasi Vineyard - Canton, OH

Managed banquet and fine dining operations, prepping meals and plating.

Maintained safety standards and created event-specific menus.

RESEARCH ASSISTANT 06/1998 - 07/2000

Pro Football Hall of Fame - Canton, OH

Supported research, documentation, and team collaboration on historical projects.

PRODUCE ASSOCIATE / MANAGER IN TRAINING 06/1988 - 08/1992

IGA Food Store - North Canton, OH

Handled produce stocking, trimming, rotation, and staff development.

Education

Kent State University at Stark - Canton,OH Some College Coursework

Business Management, 01/2012

Certifications

ServSafe Manager Certification, 10/22/29

Food Safety Manager, Ohio Department of Health

Valid Drivers License

Contact this candidate