CHRISTOPHER FRANZ LLANTO
Marsden Park
Summary
A critical thinker, innovative and commercially shrewd Culinary Professional with over 20 years of experience in recipe and menu development, optimisation, and application of food products. Proven ability to educate teams, drive culinary innovation, enhance product offerings and utilise them across diverse culinary settings. Adept at translating past and current food trends into practical applications that reverberate with customers from different demographics.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
KITCHEN OPERATIONS MANAGER
Barkley’s Barbecue
Narellan
01.2024 - Current
- Spearheaded the development of BBQ-focused recipes and seasonal specials, aligning with current food trends and customer preferences
- Conducted live cooking demonstrations and interactive presentations to educate staff on product applications and menu innovations
- Collaborated with suppliers to source quality ingredients, ensuring cost-effective procurement and consistent product quality
- Refine recipes to enhance flavour and create dishes with operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness
GROUP KITCHEN OPERATIONS MANAGER / EXECUTIVE CHEF
The Darlin Group
Sydney
01.2017 - 01.2024
- Led the creation of innovative, commercially viable dishes across four venues, enhancing menu diversity and customer satisfaction
- Worked closely with Head Chefs and Management teams to develop new products that align with culinary trends and operational needs
- Conducted market research to identify emerging food trends, integrating findings into menu offerings to maintain competitiveness
- Delivered training sessions and live cooking demonstrations to educate internal teams and clients on product applications and culinary techniques
- Participated in hospitality events and trade shows, representing the company and showcasing culinary skills
- Administer food safety audits and set high standards in compliance with regulations
- A balanced focus on driving sales, managing costs, and strategizing operational efficiency and productivity
KITCHEN MANAGER / HEAD CHEF
Outback Steakhouse
Sydney
08.2008 - 11.2016
- Managed kitchen operations, focusing on menu innovation and recipe optimisation to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency
- Collaborated with Executive teams to develop compelling product narratives, driving customer engagement and growth of sales
- Teach and coach new staff on cooking techniques and procedures
- Monitor productivity and ensure high intensity and engagement of chefs
ASSISTANT KITCHEN MANAGER / SOUS CHEF
Tony Roma’s Restaurant
CNMI
08.2005 - 07.2008
- Assisted in developing specialty sauces, marinades, and signature dishes, ensuring flexibility and commercial viability
- Supported new product development by providing culinary insights and aligning innovations with customer demands
- Proper execution of dishes, consistently meeting standards, and attention to details
Education
Food Safety Supervisor Certificate -
Restaurant & Catering NSW
Sydney, NSW03.2025
Diploma of Hospitality -
Future Academy Australia
Sydney, NSW01.2013
Diploma of Management -
Training Specialists Australia
Sydney, NSW01.2013
Certificate IV in Hospitality -
Restaurant & Catering NSW
Sydney, NSW01.2011
Associate degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management -
Philippine Christian University
Manila, Philippines01.1999
Skills
- Culinary Innovation & Application
- Recipe Development & Optimization
- Strategic Product Integration
- Demonstration & Culinary Education
- Analysis & Trend Application
- Food Safety Compliance & WHS
- Business Management
- Procurement & Supplier Relation
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
KITCHEN OPERATIONS MANAGER
Barkley’s Barbecue
01.2024 - Current
GROUP KITCHEN OPERATIONS MANAGER / EXECUTIVE CHEF
The Darlin Group
01.2017 - 01.2024
KITCHEN MANAGER / HEAD CHEF
Outback Steakhouse
08.2008 - 11.2016
ASSISTANT KITCHEN MANAGER / SOUS CHEF
Tony Roma’s Restaurant
08.2005 - 07.2008
Food Safety Supervisor Certificate -
Restaurant & Catering NSW
Diploma of Hospitality -
Future Academy Australia
Diploma of Management -
Training Specialists Australia
Certificate IV in Hospitality -
Restaurant & Catering NSW
Associate degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management -
Philippine Christian University
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