Executive Chef & Catering Operations Leader

James Neumann

Eldon, MO 913-***-**** ***.*********@*****.***

Professional Summary

Dynamic and results-driven Executive Chef with over 15 years of broad-based culinary experience, including 15+ years in leadership roles. HACCP and Serv-Safe certified, with proven expertise in food cost management, inventory and shrink control, ordering, and delivering exceptional guest services. Experienced in planning and executing both in-house and off-site catered events. Recognized for a sense of urgency and ownership that drives operational excellence and elevates every dining experience.

Work Experience

Chef/Manager

A Most Excellent Catering Adventure • Tampa, FL

May 1997 to Present

Chef position working directly with the client to ensure client's needs are met or exceeded, Scratch Kitchen, Menu planning, Ordering, Inventory control, Staffing

oCreated and executed innovative menus, incorporating seasonal ingredients and culinary trends

oEnsured consistent quality of food preparation by implementing standardized recipes and cooking techniques

oMaintained inventory levels and controlled costs through effective ordering and stock management

oCollaborated with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients while optimizing cost.

Executive Chef II @ St. Mary's Hospital

Sodexo • Jefferson City, MO

November 2023 to November 2025

In charge of Scheduling, ordering, inventory, menu planningproduction and, HAACP Caterings, and all production numbers, and all other paperwork.

oDeveloped and implemented cost-effective strategies to optimize

Fresh Foods Manager/Meat Department Manager/Chef Plate Manager

Woods Supermarkets • Sunrise Beach, MO

June 2021 to June 2023

oEnsured product quality, freshness, and safety across the meat and prepared foods departments, serving customers daily

oMonitored costs and reduced shrink by 20% through precise inventory management and portion control

oImplemented operational improvements that increased department productivity while maintaining top-quality standards

Chef

Hyvee • Kansas City, MO

March 2020 to June 2021

oRevamped menu offerings to improve variety and appeal, increasing customer satisfaction scores

oOptimized prep and service workflows, reducing meal turnaround time by 3 minutes per service

oEnforced strict sanitation and safety protocols, achieving 5 consecutive inspections with no violations

Traveling Chef with NASCAR

Americrown • Daytona Beach, FL

May 2014 to November 2014

oCoordinated logistics for mobile kitchen setups at NASCAR racing events, ensuring timely service for all team members

oCustomized high-volume meals to meet unique dietary requirements, enhancing team performance and morale

oMonitored ingredient usage and supply chains on the road, reducing costs by 15% while maintaining quality standards

Executive Chef

Wichita State University • Wichita, KS

March 2013 to May 2014

oDeveloped innovative seasonal menus for campus dining services, increasing student participation

oSpearheaded staff training programs that improved team efficiency and reduced operational errors

oManaged event catering for all campus events, delivering consistent quality while adhering to tight budgets consistently exceeding expectations and boosting repeat business

oManaged all aspects of scratch kitchen operations, including ordering, inventory, and staffing for daily meals, ensuring efficiency and quality

oPlanned and executed 50+ off-site catered events per year, maintaining strict adherence to budgets, timelines, and high culinary standards

Executive Chef

Made in the Shade Catering Solutions • Eldon, MO

January 2011 to December 2026

oPrepared 30 customized meals per week, providing clients with fully prepped, nutritious options ready for cooking or heating

oStreamlined meal prep and shopping processes, saving clients four+ hours per week while maintaining high-quality standards

oCoordinated ingredient sourcing and kitchen workflow to ensure timely delivery of all meals, increasing client satisfaction

Certifications & licenses

HACCP Certification

Food Handler Certification

ServSafe

November 2024 to 2029

Certified Food Safety Manager (National Registry of Food Safety Professionals

November 2022 to November 2027

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