Valerio Vestita
ST KILDA EAST
Summary
Dedicated and adaptable professional with a diverse background spanning hospitality, emergency services, trades, and vehicle operation. Currently working as a chef, with eight years of experience thriving in high-pressure, fast-paced environments that demand strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail.
Previously served as a firefighter in Italy for six years, gaining valuable experience in high-stress situations, operating machinery such as small cranes and compressors, and upholding strict safety standards. Strong manual skills developed through apprenticeships in both mechanical and cabinet making roles. Experienced forklift operator with confidence in handling a variety of tools and machinery. Licensed to drive cars and motorcycles, with a strong natural ability and confidence in operating vehicles of all types.
Committed to personal development, clear communication, and maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing. Brings a solid foundation of responsibility, reliability, and a calm, focused approach to high-demand roles.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sous Chef
Afloat Melbourne
11.2022 - Current
- Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Planned and directed high-volume food preparation in fast-paced environment.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, resulting in reduced food waste and cost savings for the establishment.
- Collaborated with executive chef to develop innovative menu items, leading to increased guest return rates and positive reviews.
- Mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative work environment that improved overall team performance.
- Implemented proper cleaning procedures, ensuring a safe and sanitary kitchen workspace compliant with health department regulations.
- Increased kitchen productivity by optimizing workflow processes and delegating tasks appropriately within the team.
Head Chef
La Lupa Romana
03.2022 - 11.2022
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- Managed food costs effectively with careful menu planning, accurate portion control, and utilization of seasonal ingredients.
- Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
- Developed strong vendor relationships to secure fresh, quality ingredients at competitive prices while supporting local businesses whenever possible.
- Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
- Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
- Monitored line processes to maintain consistency in quality, quantity, and presentation.
- Hired, managed, and trained kitchen staff.
Chef De Partie
Mama Shelter Hotel
03.2021 - 12.2021
- Provided support in all areas of the kitchen as needed, demonstrating versatility and adaptability under pressure.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple stations during busy service periods.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Operated all kitchen equipment safely to prevent injuries.
- Contributed to a positive kitchen atmosphere through effective communication and collaboration with team members.
- Complied with portion and serving sizes as per restaurant standards.
- Prepared items for roasting, sautéing, frying, and baking.
Head Chef
Figo Pizza E Gelato
05.2018 - 10.2020
- Created recipes and prepared advanced dishes.
- Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
- Ensured timely delivery of all orders during busy services by implementing efficient workstations and streamlined plating processes.
- Fostered a positive working environment by promoting teamwork and open communication among all kitchen staff members.
- Maintained strict adherence to health department regulations by enforcing proper food handling practices throughout the kitchen area.
- Arranged for kitchen equipment maintenance and repair when needed.
- Obtained fresh, local ingredients to lower grocery costs.
Chef De Partie
29th Apartment
12.2017 - 05.2018
- Collaborated with fellow chefs de partie to create daily specials, showcasing culinary creativity and diversity.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining prep work and implementing time-saving techniques.
- Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
- Ensured consistent dish quality by closely adhering to recipe guidelines and presentation standards.
Chef De Partie
Allora Cucina
09.2017 - 12.2017
- Reduced food waste by carefully monitoring inventory levels and adjusting orders accordingly.
- Plated meals paying special attention to garnishes and overall presentation.
- Developed and cooked memorable dishes that brought new customers into establishment.
- Improved customer satisfaction by attentively addressing dietary restrictions and special requests.
- Managed inventory efficiently, rotating stock to ensure freshness while minimizing spoilage or waste.
Chef De Partie
Bay 101
06.2017 - 09.2017
- Rotated stock to use items before expiration date.
- Maintained high standards of cleanliness and organization, ensuring a safe and efficient workspace.
- Sanitized all counters properly to prevent food-borne illness.
- Ensured compliance with food safety regulations by maintaining proper storage protocols for perishable items and promptly addressing any potential hazards.
- Supported head chef in menu creation, incorporating seasonal ingredients for innovative dishes.
Chef
Pier 71
04.2016 - 05.2017
- Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
- Checked freezer and refrigerator prior to each shift to verify correct temperatures.
- Utilized proper cleaning techniques to sanitize counters and utensils used in preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
- Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
Butcher's Apprentice
Fresh Central Meat
09.2014 - 04.2016
- Collaborated with other apprentices to create a positive learning environment through open communication and shared experiences.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing expert knowledge on meat cuts and preparation techniques.
- Assisted with promotional events including tastings and demonstrations, driving increased awareness and sales for the business.
- Aided the head butcher with administrative tasks such as managing order requests or scheduling appointments.
- Developed strong knife skills and precision cutting techniques, increasing efficiency in meat processing tasks.
- Maintained organized storage areas for raw materials and supplies, promoting efficiency in daily operations.
Forklift Operator
Ozy Fresh
06.2012 - 09.2014
- Safely loaded and unloaded trucks using appropriate forklift attachments, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
- Kept warehouse clean and organized by removing debris and returning unused pallets to designated areas.
- Improved warehouse efficiency by skillfully operating forklifts to move, locate, and stack materials.
- Wrapped pallets in plastic wrap and attached merchandise tags to prepare for shipping.
- Transported goods between warehouse locations according to shipment and storage needs.
- Operated forklift in compliance with OSHA guidelines and organizational policies.
- Collaborated with team members to complete tasks quickly and increase overall productivity.
Apprentice Mechanic
Just Falcon
09.2011 - 06.2012
- Assisted senior mechanics with complex repairs, gaining hands-on experience and improving technical skills.
- Made basic repairs to cars and other vehicles, asking questions, and taking notes to increase personal knowledge.
- Took assessments to prove knowledge base and skills.
- Observed senior mechanics completing major repairs.
- Safely lifted cars to complete repairs.
- Operated mechanic's tools and shop equipment safely to prevent damage.
- Took advantage of opportunities to learn new systems and repair procedures.
Fire Fighter
GSA
12.2010 - 08.2011
- Maintained strong knowledge of firefighting principles and suppression methods, which enabled proper decision-making in emergency situations.
- Mentored new firefighters by sharing knowledge and experience, fostering a supportive learning environment for professional development.
- Increased firefighter skill levels by providing ongoing training sessions on new equipment use, rescue techniques, and hazardous materials handling.
- Saved lives and protected property by swiftly executing firefighting techniques during numerous incidents.
- Maintained optimal fire station conditions by overseeing daily equipment checks, facility repairs, and inventory management tasks.
- Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
- Reduced fire hazards within the community by conducting thorough building inspections and recommending preventive measures.
Firefighter
Ifex Italia
06.2005 - 11.2010
- Performed life-saving procedures during medical emergencies, administering CPR and first aid as needed.
- Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
- Collaborated with fellow firefighters to execute efficient firefighting strategies, mitigating property damage and loss of life.
- Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
- Operated fire hoses, hydrants and extinguishers to eliminate fire and prevent from spreading.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a mentor to new firefighters, fostering a culture of teamwork and professionalism within the department.
- Maintained optimal readiness for emergency situations by regularly participating in drills and training exercises.
- Improved operational efficiency by helping maintain apparatuses, equipment, and facilities according to established standards.
Cabinet Maker
Giulio Rossi
10.2003 - 05.2005
- Installed hardware such as drawer pulls, hinges, and handles.
- Read and interpreted design plans to understand project specifications.
- Maintained safe and organized workspace to minimize risk of injury.
- Blueprint design understanding
Education
Certificate IV - Commercial Cookery
Victorian Institute of Technology
Melbourne, VIC12-2019
Diploma - Business And Management
Lonsdale Institute
Melbourne, VIC09-2015
Skills
- Team leadership
- Food safety
- Teamwork and cooperation
- Decision-making under pressure
- Public relations
- Critical thinking
- Strategic planning
- Safe driver
- Heavy equipment operations
Certification
Food handling certificate
CPR
Languages
English
Full Professional
Italian
Native or Bilingual
French
Elementary
Interests
- Cooking
- Camping
- Running
- Hiking
- reading
- podcast
- personal development
- leadership
Timeline
Sous Chef
Afloat Melbourne
11.2022 - Current
Head Chef
La Lupa Romana
03.2022 - 11.2022
Chef De Partie
Mama Shelter Hotel
03.2021 - 12.2021
Head Chef
Figo Pizza E Gelato
05.2018 - 10.2020
Chef De Partie
29th Apartment
12.2017 - 05.2018
Chef De Partie
Allora Cucina
09.2017 - 12.2017
Chef De Partie
Bay 101
06.2017 - 09.2017
Chef
Pier 71
04.2016 - 05.2017
Butcher's Apprentice
Fresh Central Meat
09.2014 - 04.2016
Forklift Operator
Ozy Fresh
06.2012 - 09.2014
Apprentice Mechanic
Just Falcon
09.2011 - 06.2012
Fire Fighter
GSA
12.2010 - 08.2011
Firefighter
Ifex Italia
06.2005 - 11.2010
Cabinet Maker
Giulio Rossi
10.2003 - 05.2005
Certificate IV - Commercial Cookery
Victorian Institute of Technology
Diploma - Business And Management
Lonsdale Institute
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