Michele Smith
Knoxville
Summary
Accomplished Operations Manager with extensive experience in leading teams and optimizing processes to drive organizational efficiency. Expertise in strategic planning and staff development has resulted in significant workflow improvements and cost reductions. Demonstrated ability to enhance business performance through effective leadership and innovative problem-solving approaches.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Culinary Director
Knoxville Rehabilitation Hospital
Knoxville
01.2025 - Current
- Coordinated with vendors for purchasing produce at discounted rates when available.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Developed and implemented culinary standards, policies, and procedures.
- Reviewed internal reports and identified areas of risk or potential cost savings.
- Managed crisis situations to minimize impact on operations and reputation.
- Ensured compliance with all relevant regulations, policies and procedures.
- Scheduled and attended pre-event meetings with clients to discuss event details and objectives.
- Oversaw advanced event registration and day-of check-in to handle high volume of guests.
Executive Chef/Culinary Director
Deane Hill Senior Living
Knoxville
07.2022 - 12.2024
- Developed and implemented operational strategies to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
- Prepared staff work schedules and assigned team members to specific duties.
- Ensured compliance with applicable laws, regulations, industry standards.
- Monitored kitchen staff to ensure compliance with company expectations of taste, speed and presentation.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers to ensure best prices while maintaining product quality.
- Streamlined kitchen functions through supply reorganization and communication with front-of-house manager.
Executive Chef Manager
East Tennessee Children's Hospital
Knoxville
01.2020 - 07.2022
- Resolved problems or concerns to satisfaction of involved parties.
- Consistently maintained high levels of cleanliness, organization, storage and sanitation of food and beverage products to ensure quality.
- Established and maintained partnerships with community organizations to expand program reach.
- Developed and maintained budgets for various programs, optimizing resource allocation.
Education
Associate of Science - Rel Maples Culinary School/ Hospitality
Walters State Community College
Morristown, TN05-2007
Skills
- Operational strategy
- Employee training
- Crisis management
- Event planning
- Budget management
- Food and beverage operations
- Business administration
Timeline
Culinary Director
Knoxville Rehabilitation Hospital
01.2025 - Current
Executive Chef/Culinary Director
Deane Hill Senior Living
07.2022 - 12.2024
Executive Chef Manager
East Tennessee Children's Hospital
01.2020 - 07.2022
Associate of Science - Rel Maples Culinary School/ Hospitality
Walters State Community College
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