Tom Parfitt
Richmond,VA
Summary
Dynamic culinary leader and pastry-trained chef with over 15 years of hands-on kitchen experience, dedicated to building innovative food-centered programs and fostering strong teams. A profound respect for the craft, ingredients, and community-based food systems drives a commitment to excellence in culinary education and operations. Proven ability to thrive in diverse environments, seamlessly transitioning between kitchen, classroom, and leadership roles to inspire others and elevate culinary standards. Passionate about creating impactful learning experiences that celebrate the art of cooking while nurturing a sense of community.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director, Professional Education
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA
01.2021 - Current
- Lead the Professional Education unit's operations, budgeting, programming, and strategy, leading to a self-sustaining unit and returning $500,000 net to the school annually.
- Direct a team of 6 full-time administrators, 50+ instructors, and multiple community and corporate partnerships, leading to a dynamic and profitable portfolio of programming for the regional workforce.
- Develop faculty, staff, and partnerships for continuous improvement and growth
Senior Program Manager
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA
01.2015 - 01.2020
- Led programs with 30%+ enrollment growth
- Managed a portfolio of workforce development programming in high-growth areas, directed 50+ instructors, and oversaw multiple community and corporate partnerships
- Oversaw operations, budgeting, and strategy
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement strategic program initiatives.
- Streamlined program processes to enhance operational efficiency and support departmental goals.
- Analyzed program data to inform decision-making and improve project outcomes.
- Developed comprehensive project plans, outlining timelines, milestones, and deliverables for successful execution.
Program Manager
Center for Culinary Arts, University of Richmond
Richmond, VA
01.2009 - 01.2015
- Led programs serving 2,600+ annual enrollments
- Taught pastry, culinary arts, nutrition, food science, and foodservice management
- Recruited and trained instructors and volunteers
- Additional: Culinary instructor for cancer survivors; developed a practical cooking curriculum
- Led program development initiatives to enhance culinary curriculum and outreach efforts.
- Managed stakeholder relationships, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and community needs.
- Developed strategic partnerships with industry leaders to create internship opportunities for students.
Executive Chef / Owner
Seven Hills Market
Richmond, VA
01.2004 - 01.2009
- Built and operated a catering and prepared foods business from the ground up
- Designed seasonal menus rooted in quality ingredients
- Led hiring, training, and kitchen operations
- Executed small and large-scale events
Pastry Cook (Externship)
CityZen
Washington, DC
01.2007 - 01.2007
- Executed plated desserts in a fine dining environment
Sous Chef / Manager
Zeus Gallery Café
Richmond, VA
01.2001 - 01.2003
- Managed kitchen operations, ordering, and inventory
- Improved cost control and kitchen systems
- Trained staff on food safety and consistency
Chef / Manager
Ipanema Café
Richmond, VA
01.1999 - 01.2001
- Led menu development with focus on vegetarian cuisine
- Managed staff and daily operations
Education
Master of Arts - Permaculture Design
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA12.2017
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA05.2014
Baking and Pastry Arts
L’Academie De Cuisine
Gaithersburg, MD05.2007
Skills
- Culinary & Pastry Arts
- Menu Development
- Team Leadership
- Culinary Instruction
- Event Execution
- Educational Program Development
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- Program management
- Contract and vendor management
Certification
- Permaculture Teacher
- Permaculture Designer
- Program Planner (LERN)
- Leadership Metro Richmond class of 2024
Timeline
Director, Professional Education
University of Richmond
01.2021 - Current
Senior Program Manager
University of Richmond
01.2015 - 01.2020
Program Manager
Center for Culinary Arts, University of Richmond
01.2009 - 01.2015
Pastry Cook (Externship)
CityZen
01.2007 - 01.2007
Executive Chef / Owner
Seven Hills Market
01.2004 - 01.2009
Sous Chef / Manager
Zeus Gallery Café
01.2001 - 01.2003
Chef / Manager
Ipanema Café
01.1999 - 01.2001
Master of Arts - Permaculture Design
University of Richmond
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Richmond
Baking and Pastry Arts
L’Academie De Cuisine