Cody Gillard

Accomplished culinary leader with over 20 years of experience in fine dining and high-volume kitchens. Proven ability to lead teams, control costs, and design creative, seasonal menus. Committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while fostering a collaborative, high-performance kitchen environment.

First Cook / Lead Prep Cook - Gather at Wander the Resort - Bloomfield, ON

(2023-07)

• Coordinated communication between Executive and Sous Chefs.
• Led breakfast and brunch service for resort guests.
• Managed inventory and placed orders with vendors.

Executive Chef - The Local Social House - Belleville, ON

(2022-10 - 2023-07)

• Maintained food and labour costs below industry benchmarks (<24% and <18%).
• Designed seasonal menus, sourced local ingredients.
• Recruited, trained, and conducted performance reviews for kitchen staff.
• Ensured timely, high-quality food service across all operations.
• Handled invoice processing and operational reporting.

Chef de Cuisine - The Marans Dine Bar - Picton, ON

(2021-04 - 2022-10)

• Supervised kitchen staff, supported Executive Chef with operations and training.
• Maintained FIFO rotation, monitored food quality and safety compliance.
• Collaborated on menu development and cost optimization.
• Maintained cross-departmental communication with FOH and management.

Diploma - Culinary Arts - Loyalist College (2011 - 2013)

Bachelor's - Broadcast Journalism - College of Sports Media (2009 - 2011)

Bachelor's - Journalism - Ryerson University (2004 - 2007)