In the world of restaurant management, the kitchen manager plays a vital role in ensuring operations run smoothly and efficiently. This important position requires a unique combination of skills and experience, which must be reflected in an effective kitchen manager resume.

As a copywriter and subject matter expert, I have examined many kitchen manager resumes and found that the most successful ones all share certain key elements. In this article, we will explore what sets these winning examples apart and examine how you can create a standout kitchen manager resume of your own.

Whether you are a seasoned kitchen manager looking for your next opportunity or a new candidate looking to break into this field, this article will provide you with the tools and insights you need to succeed. So, let’s dive in and examine what it takes to create a winning kitchen manager resume.

Kitchen Manager Job Overview

As a kitchen manager, you are responsible for overseeing the overall operations of a restaurant, catering service, or other food service establishment. Your roles and responsibilities as a kitchen manager may vary depending on the size and type of establishment you are managing. However, some common duties include:

Hiring and training new kitchen staff
Developing and overseeing menus and recipes
Monitoring food quality and safety standards
Managing kitchen inventory and ordering supplies
Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
Maintaining kitchen equipment and appliances
Planning and scheduling kitchen staff shifts
Managing food costs and budgeting

To be a successful kitchen manager, you should have a range of necessary skills, including:

1. Leadership and organizational skills

A kitchen manager must be able to lead a team and organize tasks effectively. You should be able to delegate tasks to your team members and make sure they are completed on time and to the highest standard.

2. Communication skills

Effective communication is key to the success of a kitchen manager. You must be able to communicate with your team, management, and clients effectively.

3. Culinary expertise

A kitchen manager should have a strong background in culinary techniques and food safety practices. You should be able to develop menus, recipes, and flavor profiles that meet the expectations of your customers.

4. Time management skills

Managing a kitchen can be a fast-paced and demanding job. You should be able to multitask, prioritize tasks, and manage your time effectively to ensure everything runs smoothly.

5. Problem-solving skills

When problems arise in the kitchen, it is the job of the kitchen manager to quickly and efficiently solve them. You must be able to identify and anticipate problems and come up with creative solutions to ensure the smooth running of the kitchen.

By possessing these skills, you can become a successful kitchen manager and ensure that your establishment runs smoothly and profitably.

Resume Format for Kitchen Manager

When it comes to creating a winning resume for a kitchen manager position, the right format can make all the difference. Here are some tips on the basic resume structure, necessary sections to include, and proper length of a kitchen manager resume.

Basic Resume Structure

A kitchen manager resume should follow standard resume structure, which typically consists of the following sections:

Contact Information: This section should be at the top of your resume, and it should include your full name, professional email address, and phone number.
Summary/Objective: This section should be a brief statement of your qualifications and career goals.
Work Experience: This section should provide detailed information on your previous work experience in the culinary industry, including your job titles, dates of employment, and descriptions of your responsibilities and achievements.
Education and Training: This section should provide information on your culinary education and certifications/training programs you’ve completed.
Skills: This section should list any additional skills you have that make you an ideal candidate for the position you’re applying for.
References: This section can be included at the bottom of your resume and should contain the names and contact information of professional references that can vouch for your skills and experience.

Necessary Sections to Include

While each resume is unique, there are certain sections that every kitchen manager resume should include:

Experience in kitchen management, including expertise with kitchen operations, personnel management and scheduling, inventory control, and budgeting.
Extensive knowledge of food handling, preparation, and safety regulations.
Strong communication and leadership skills.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
A demonstrated passion for the culinary industry.
Any relevant training or certifications, such as ServSafe or culinary school degrees.

Proper Length of a Kitchen Manager Resume

The ideal length of a kitchen manager resume is one to two pages, depending on your level of experience. It’s important to remember that recruiters and hiring managers are often inundated with resumes, so it’s essential to make your resume concise and easy to read. Be sure to focus on your most relevant qualifications and experience, and tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for.

Creating a winning kitchen manager resume requires a clear understanding of basic resume structure, including the necessary sections to include and the proper length. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job in the culinary industry.

Top 5 Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Kitchen Manager Resume

When applying for the position of a kitchen manager, it is essential to have a well-crafted resume that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements. Here are the top five dos and don’ts for writing a winning kitchen manager resume.

What to Do When Crafting Your Resume

1. Tailor your resume to the job description

Before crafting your resume, carefully read the job description and tailor it to match the skills and experience required. Highlight your relevant qualifications and skills that align with the job opening to make a good first impression on the hiring manager.

2. Highlight your experience as a kitchen manager

When writing your resume, showcase your experience in managing a kitchen and staff. Highlight your achievements in training, scheduling, menu planning, and inventory management. Use quantifiable metrics to showcase your success in improving kitchen efficiency and reducing costs.

3. Highlight your communication and leadership skills

As a kitchen manager, your job involves effective communication with staff, customers, and other stakeholders. Highlight your communication and leadership skills in your resume, emphasizing how you lead, inspire and motivate teams to achieve goals and maintain high standards.

4. Emphasize your culinary expertise

In addition to managerial skills, a kitchen manager should have a strong culinary background. Highlight your expertise in food preparation, menu planning, and recipe development to make your resume stand out.

5. Use keywords and phrases

Many companies use software to scan resumes for keywords, so use relevant keywords and phrases that match the job description. This will increase your chances of getting past the resume screening process and landing an interview.

What Not to Do When Writing Your Kitchen Manager Resume

1. Don’t use generic statements

Avoid using cliched statements that do not add any value to your resume. Statements like “hard worker” or “fast learner” are not specific and do not highlight your unique qualifications and experience.

2. Don’t exaggerate your skills

While it may be tempting to exaggerate your skills and experience, it is not advisable. If you are hired based on false information, you run the risk of being exposed and ultimately losing your job.

3. Don’t neglect formatting and proofreading

A poorly formatted or error-filled resume can turn off potential employers. Make sure your resume is easy to read and formatted correctly. Also, proofread your resume for spelling and grammatical errors.

4. Don’t include irrelevant information

Your resume should focus on your skills and experience that are relevant to the position of a kitchen manager. Avoid including irrelevant information like hobbies or personal interests that do not add any value to your resume.

5. Don’t forget to showcase your achievements

Your achievements are your selling points. Make sure you showcase them prominently in your resume.

Tips for Making Your Kitchen Manager Resume Stand Out

In today’s job market, standing out among other applicants can be challenging, especially for a role as essential as a kitchen manager. However, there are ways to make your resume unique and catch the employer’s eye. Here are a few tips to help you create a winning kitchen manager resume:

Ways to Make Your Resume Unique

Showcase your previous accomplishments: Instead of just listing your duties, highlight your achievements in previous roles. For example, did you increase profitability or reduce waste within the kitchen? Mentioning these achievements can set you apart from other applicants.
Use keywords: Many companies use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to filter resumes based on keywords. Including relevant keywords, such as “menu planning,” “food safety,” and “inventory management,” can help your resume stand out.
Tailor your resume to the role: Ensure that your skills and experiences align with the role of a kitchen manager. Avoid mentioning irrelevant skills and experiences that don’t add value to your application.
Add a personal touch: Instead of using a generic resume template, consider adding a bit of personality to your resume. A photo, signature, or personal branding statement can make a lasting impression on the employer.

How to Catch the Employer’s Eye

Start with a powerful summary: A summary statement that emphasizes your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements can grab the employer’s attention.
Use bullet points: Bullet points can help break up the text and make your resume easier to read. Ensure that your bullet points are concise and highlight your most significant accomplishments.
Quantify your achievements: Using numbers and statistics to describe your accomplishments can make them more compelling. For example, “Reduced kitchen waste by 15% within six months” paints a clearer picture of your achievements than “Reduced kitchen waste.”
Use appropriate formatting: Consistent formatting, such as font sizes, margins, and spacing, can make your resume look more professional and polished.

By following these tips, you can create a standout kitchen manager resume that captures the employer’s attention and gets you noticed. Remember to tailor your resume to the role and company you’re applying to, use appropriate formatting, and highlight your achievements to make your resume stand out. Kitchen management is a highly demanding job, and to get noticed in the highly competitive job market, your resume needs to make an impact. The right action words and phrases can help impress your potential employer and make your resume stand out from the crowd.

Here are some of the most effective action words and phrases to include in your Kitchen Manager Resume:

Action Verbs to Use:

Supervise – Kitchen managers are in charge of managing a team of cooks and kitchen staff, so it’s essential to demonstrate your ability to supervise and lead by using action words like “Supervised,” “Managed,” “Directed,” or “Oversaw.”
Organize – Kitchen managers are responsible for maintaining an organized and efficient kitchen. Use action words like “Organized,” “Planned,” “Scheduled,” or “Coordinated” to show your ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
Communicate – Excellent communication skills are a must-have for kitchen managers. Use action words like “Communicated,” “Interacted,” or “Collaborated” to showcase your ability to communicate effectively with staff and customers.
Monitor – Kitchen managers also need to be vigilant in monitoring food quality, inventory levels, and staff performance. Use action words like “Monitored,” “Evaluated,” or “Checked” to demonstrate your attention to detail.
Resolve – Kitchen managers need to be skilled at resolving issues and conflicts that may arise in the kitchen. Use action words like “Resolved,” “Dealt with,” “Handled,” or “Addressed” to show your ability to handle difficult situations professionally.

Phrases to Include in Your Kitchen Manager Resume:

“Successfully managed a team of XX cooks and kitchen staff, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.”
“Implemented new kitchen procedures and protocols, resulting in improved food quality and customer satisfaction.”
“Developed and executed training programs for new staff, resulting in improved retention rates and reduced training costs.”
“Maintained accurate inventory tracking, resulting in reduced waste and improved cost control.”
“Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless communication and customer satisfaction.”

By incorporating these action words and phrases into your Kitchen Manager Resume, you can effectively showcase your skills and accomplishments, and increase your chances of landing your dream job in the competitive foodservice industry.

Examples of Good Kitchen Manager Resumes

Here are three winning examples of kitchen manager resumes that can help you craft your own:

Example 1: Kitchen Manager Resume for Fine Dining Restaurant

Objective: Seeking a position as a kitchen manager in a fine dining establishment where I can showcase my skills in culinary arts and kitchen management.

Experience:

Managed a team of 10 chefs and kitchen staff to ensure the efficient operation of a high-end restaurant kitchen
Developed creative and innovative menus that featured seasonal ingredients and culinary trends
Maintained a high standard of food quality, presentation, and taste in every dish served
Oversaw all kitchen operations including inventory management, budget planning, and scheduling of staff
Consistently met or exceeded customer satisfaction ratings in food quality and service

Skills:

Culinary arts and food safety certification
Strong leadership and management skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Proficient in kitchen inventory and budget management
Creative and innovative menu planning abilities

Example 2: Kitchen Manager Resume for a Cafe Chef

Objective: Seeking a kitchen manager position in a dynamic and fast-paced cafe environment where I can utilize my skills in culinary arts, inventory management, and customer service.

Experience:

Created and prepared a variety of cafe-style dishes from breakfast items to sandwiches and salads
Maintained a high level of food quality and presentation in a fast-paced environment
Trained and monitored kitchen staff to ensure that all food safety and sanitation regulations were met
Developed and implemented a system for tracking inventory to minimize waste and maximize profitability
Provided excellent customer service and resolved complaints in timely and efficient manner

Skills:

Culinary arts and food safety certification
Strong leadership and management skills
Proficient in inventory management and budget planning
Excellent customer service and problem-solving abilities
Creative and innovative menu planning abilities

Example 3: Kitchen Manager Resume for a Catering Company

Objective: Seeking a challenging and rewarding kitchen manager position in a catering company that provides opportunities for creativity, innovation, and growth.

Skills to Highlight in Your Kitchen Manager Resume

A kitchen manager resume should highlight a range of skills that demonstrate an ability to successfully manage a kitchen and team of kitchen staff. Employers will be looking for candidates with experience in managing kitchens, cooking, and food preparation, as well as excellent communication skills. Below are three areas of skills to focus on when crafting your kitchen manager resume.

Management Skills

As a kitchen manager, you will be responsible for managing staff, inventory, budgets, and planning menus. Therefore, highlighting your management skills is key. Your resume should convey your ability to lead a team, delegate tasks, maintain a positive work culture, and execute a plan flawlessly. Make sure to include any management certifications you have earned, such as ServSafe or HACCP. Employers will be looking for candidates who can manage a team to work efficiently and produce high-quality food consistently.

Culinary Skills

Being a successful kitchen manager also requires culinary skills, such as recipe creation, menu planning, and food preparation abilities. Your resume should highlight your experience in these areas, including your ability to create unique dishes, adapt to new menu trends, and manage costs. Employers will be looking for candidates with a love of food and the creativity to incorporate new ingredients and flavors into their cooking.

Communication Skills

In a fast-paced kitchen environment, communication is critical. A kitchen manager must communicate clearly and effectively with staff, customers, and vendors. Your resume should convey your ability to communicate with individuals at all levels, including staff, colleagues, and customers, and demonstrate your conflict resolution skills. Being a kitchen manager requires excellent people skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.

Your kitchen manager resume should highlight your experience in managing kitchens, your culinary background, and your communication skills. Crafting a strong resume can help you stand out from other applicants and give you the best chance of landing the job of your dreams.

Education and Certifications

A successful career as a Kitchen Manager can require a combination of education and relevant certifications. The specific education requirements for Kitchen Managers can vary depending on the job, experience, and the employer’s preferences. Below is a summary of some education requirements for a Kitchen Manager:

High school diploma or equivalent: Most Kitchen Manager positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. It is a basic requirement that shows the candidate has obtained a certain level of education and is capable of handling kitchen-related tasks.
Culinary education: Many Kitchen Managers have completed some sort of culinary program, whether it is a certificate, diploma, or a degree. Formal culinary education provides a foundation for the necessary knowledge and skills required to manage a kitchen effectively.
Relevant work experience: While not a formal education requirement per se, relevant work experience in a kitchen is often required. It demonstrates that the candidate has developed practical skills, knowledge, and understanding on the job.

Certifications are a great way to demonstrate knowledge, expertise, and commitment to the industry. In addition to education, there are several certifications available that can be useful for Kitchen Managers:

ServSafe: The ServSafe certification is one of the most popular certifications in the foodservice industry. It certifies that the candidate is knowledgeable about food safety and handling practices, making them effective leaders in a kitchen.
Certified Executive Chef (CEC): The CEC is a professional certification offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). It is designed for chefs who have management responsibilities and who are responsible for directing food operations in a commercial kitchen.
Certified Chef de Cuisine (CCC): The CCC certification is another professional certification offered by the ACF. It is designed for chefs who are responsible for managing a kitchen and cooking operations. It indicates that the holder has a strong understanding of culinary techniques, foodservice operations, and management skills.
Foodservice Management Professional (FMP): Offered by the National Restaurant Association, the FMP certification is perfect for Kitchen Managers who seek to become foodservice managers. It covers various topics like human resources, finance, and legal issues, helping the holder to become a well-rounded professional.

Education and certifications can be valuable assets to a Kitchen Manager’s career. The education requirements can vary, but a high school diploma, relevant work experience, and a culinary education are just some of the basic requirements. Meanwhile, certifications like ServSafe, CEC, CCC, and FMP demonstrate knowledge, expertise, and dedication to the foodservice industry.

How to Customize Your Kitchen Manager Resume for Different Kitchens

As a kitchen manager, you know that the food and beverage industry is diverse and vast, with different types of cuisines, service styles, and customer expectations. To land your dream job, you need to tailor your kitchen manager resume to the specific needs and preferences of each restaurant, bakery, or cafe you apply for. Here’s how to customize your resume for different kitchens:

Fine Dining Restaurants

Fine dining restaurants are known for their upscale ambiance, elaborate menus, and attentive service. As a kitchen manager, you should highlight your experience in managing a high-end kitchen, collaborating with the executive chef and sommelier, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. In your resume, showcase your skills in menu planning, food costing, inventory management, and staff training. Emphasize your knowledge of fine ingredients, culinary techniques, and plating presentations. Mention any awards, accolades, or certifications that demonstrate your expertise and professionalism.

Fast Casual Restaurants

Fast casual restaurants are a mix between quick-service and casual dining, offering affordable and convenient options for people who want tasty food on the go. As a kitchen manager, you should showcase your ability to maintain speed, accuracy, and quality in a fast-paced environment. In your resume, highlight your experience in managing a team of cooks, ensuring food safety and sanitation, and maximizing productivity and profits. Emphasize your knowledge of diverse cuisines, cooking methods, and flavor profiles. Mention any customer satisfaction ratings, sales growth, or cost savings that demonstrate your ability to deliver results.

Cafes and Bakeries

Cafes and bakeries are known for their cozy vibe, simple yet tasty food, and warm hospitality. As a kitchen manager, you should emphasize your creativity, flexibility, and interpersonal skills. In your resume, showcase your experience in preparing breakfast and brunch items, baking pastries and desserts, and crafting seasonal menus. Emphasize your knowledge of coffee, tea, and beverage service, as well as your ability to manage food costs and waste. Mention any customer feedback, repeat business, or community involvement that demonstrate your ability to build relationships and connections.

Customizing your kitchen manager resume for different kitchens requires you to understand the unique values, needs, and challenges of each segment of the food and beverage industry. You should adapt your resume to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the particular kitchen’s expectations and standards. By doing so, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers and ultimately landing your dream job.

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Kitchen Manager Resume

If you’re looking to land a kitchen manager position, you’ll want to make sure your resume is top-notch. However, it’s also crucial to avoid common resume mistakes and don’ts. Here are some of the things you should steer clear of when writing your resume:

Common Resume Mistakes

Typos and Grammatical Errors – Nobody is perfect, but your resume should be. Make sure to read and re-read your resume to eliminate all typos and grammatical errors. It’s also a great idea to have someone else review it, as a fresh set of eyes can catch mistakes you may have missed.
Irrelevant Information – Including information that doesn’t relate to the position you’re applying for is a waste of space and can detract from the relevant information. Focus on highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications.
Lack of Specificity – Using vague language or non-specific descriptors can make your resume feel generic and less impactful. Be specific about your achievements, qualifications, and experience to help your resume stand out.
Poor Formatting – Having a poorly formatted resume can make it difficult to read and parse through. Use bullet points, clear fonts, and formatting consistently throughout your document to make your resume easy to read.

Resume Don’ts

Don’t Use Cliched Phrases – Phrases like “detail-oriented” or “team-oriented” are overused and don’t add much value to your resume. Focus on describing specific situations where you’ve demonstrated these skills instead.
Don’t Lie – It can be tempting to exaggerate or outright lie about your experience or qualifications, but it’s never worth it. Hiring managers will often vet your claims, and lying can result in serious consequences, including being fired.
Don’t Use a Generic Resume – Sending the same resume to multiple job postings may seem efficient, but it’s not the best way to get hired. Tailor your resume to the specific job posting, highlighting how your skills and experience align with the responsibilities and requirements of the position.
Don’t Skip the Cover Letter – While a cover letter may not be required, it’s often an excellent opportunity to showcase your personality, passion, and fit for the position. Use the cover letter to expand on your qualifications and highlight why you’re the best candidate for the job.

Avoiding common resume mistakes and don’ts is just as important as showcasing your relevant experience and qualifications when writing a kitchen manager resume. By being specific, avoiding cliched phrases, and tailoring your resume to the specific job posting, you’ll increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Kitchen Manager Resume: Winning Examples for 2024