Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Mark Cosgrove

Palmyra,VA

Summary

Dynamic Executive Chef with a proven track record at Fardowners Restaurant Inc., excelling in menu innovation and team management. Expert in culinary techniques and food presentation, I enhanced customer satisfaction through creative, diverse menus while fostering a collaborative kitchen environment. Committed to maintaining high standards of sanitation and quality.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

2nd Cook

Aramark
11.2024 - 02.2025
  • Contributed to positive team dynamics by effectively communicating with coworkers and supporting their needs during busy shifts.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining food preparation and cooking processes.
  • Collaborated with Head Chef to develop new recipes and menu items, increasing customer satisfaction.
  • Assisted in inventory management, ensuring adequate stock levels while minimizing spoilage.
  • Worked closely with the front-of-house team to address customer inquiries or concerns swiftly.

Executive Chef/Owner

Fardowners Restaurant Inc.
10.2007 - 10.2024
  • Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
  • Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
  • Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
  • Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
  • Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
  • Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
  • Conducted regular evaluations of kitchen equipment and appliances, ensuring proper maintenance and timely replacement to maintain optimal operational efficiency.
  • Maximized profitability by effectively managing food costs through portion control and minimizing waste.
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating competitive prices on ingredients and supplies.
  • Created visually appealing plate presentations, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
  • Managed kitchen staff for efficient food production, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality dishes.
  • Spearheaded kitchen renovations to optimize workflow efficiency without compromising quality or safety standards.
  • Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless dining experiences for guests.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations with effective inventory management and cost controls.
  • Designed seasonal menus showcasing fresh local ingredients, supporting sustainable agriculture practices within the community.

Executive Chef/Owner

Fardowners Catering
10.2007 - 02.2024
  • Delivered excellent food quality and maximized customer satisfaction by preparing meals according to customer requests.
  • Requisitioned food, selected and developed recipes and standardized production recipes for consistent quality.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Developed custom menus for clients with specific dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring their utmost satisfaction during their dining experience.
  • Expanded catering services through strategic marketing efforts, increasing event bookings and revenue streams.
  • Participated in community outreach events such as charity dinners or fundraisers to give back to the local community while promoting brand awareness.
  • Orchestrated catering events for high-profile clients, consistently receiving commendable feedback.
  • Managed budgeting and financial planning to ensure profitability and sustainable growth.

Executive Chef

Starr Hill Brewery
03.2004 - 09.2007
  • Implemented staff training programs to improve culinary skills, teamwork, and overall productivity.
  • Implemented special events promotions such as theme nights or cooking demonstrations to attract new clientele and boost sales revenues.
  • Fostered a positive working environment among kitchen team members that encouraged collaboration, creativity, and open communication.
  • Collaborated with other Executive Chefs within the company network to share best practices and develop new menu items that showcased each property''s unique offerings.

Education

High School Diploma -

George C Marshall
Tysons Corner, VA

Skills

  • Culinary techniques
  • Food preparation
  • Knife skills
  • Team management
  • Sanitation practices
  • Food presentation
  • Allergen awareness
  • Sauce making
  • Ingredient sourcing
  • Recipe development
  • Menu planning
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Cleaning and organization
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Multitasking and organization

Certification

Serve Safe

Situational Leadership

Timeline

2nd Cook

Aramark
11.2024 - 02.2025

Executive Chef/Owner

Fardowners Restaurant Inc.
10.2007 - 10.2024

Executive Chef/Owner

Fardowners Catering
10.2007 - 02.2024

Executive Chef

Starr Hill Brewery
03.2004 - 09.2007

High School Diploma -

George C Marshall
Mark Cosgrove