De Andre P. Anderson

Dynamic and results-driven Food Service Director with over 10 years of leadership experience in large-scale food operations, team development, and organizational culture transformation. Proven ability to lead high-performing teams, increase program participation, and implement innovative initiatives that improve student engagement and operational efficiency. Skilled in USDA/CEP compliance, financial management, and building trust-based workplace cultures rooted in accountability and excellence.

Food Service Director - Kankakee School District 111 - Kankakee, IL

(2022-08 - 2026-06)

• Directed all operations of a multi-site child nutrition program serving 4,500+ students daily across 12 schools in a CEP district.
• Led, trained, and developed a team of 50–60 food service staff, improving accountability, morale, and operational consistency.
• Reinvented district menu offerings by introducing healthier, student-centered meal options, increasing participation and satisfaction.
• Pioneered the "Healthy Habits" Workshop, educating students and families on nutrition, wellness, and lifestyle improvement.
• Created and launched the VIP Experience Program, recognizing honor roll and perfect attendance students, significantly boosting student engagement and program participation.
• Established a partnership with Essential Smoothies, introducing 100% fruit smoothies at the high school under Smart Snacks compliance—enhancing revenue and student appeal.
• Transformed kitchen culture by implementing leadership principles from The Speed of Trust and The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, resulting in stronger teamwork, improved communication, and increased staff retention.
• Reorganized and strengthened the Food Service Office, building a more cohesive and efficient administrative team.
• Managed budgets, procurement, inventory, and vendor relationships to maintain cost-effective operations while maximizing CEP reimbursement.
• Ensured full compliance with USDA, state, and CEP regulations, including audits, reporting, and eligibility requirements.
• Collaborated with district leadership and school administrators to align food service operations with broader educational and wellness goals.

Youth Director - Crosswinds Church - Chicago, IL

(2012-08 - 2023-08)

• Recruited, trained, and led volunteer teams supporting middle and high school youth programs.
• Developed and delivered weekly programming focused on leadership, personal growth, and community building.
• Managed annual budgets and coordinated events that strengthened engagement and participation.

Team Leader - HD Supply

(2016-08 - 2020-08)

• Trained new employees in warehouse operations and SAP systems.
• Led order fulfillment processes ensuring accuracy and customer satisfaction.
• Operated equipment and supported logistics operations to maintain workflow efficiency.

Cook (Opener/Closer) - Skyline Club - Chicago, IL

(2014-02 - 2016-12)

• Executed high-quality food preparation in a fine dining environment.
• Managed kitchen operations including inventory, food safety, and sanitation compliance.
• Trained new staff and supported seamless front-of-house coordination.

Senior Field Specialist - Advantage Sales and Marketing

(2010-11 - 2013-03)

• Led training sessions and coached sales teams to improve performance.
• Conducted needs assessments and implemented training strategies aligned with business goals.

Residential Advisor - Joliet Job Corps

(2008-11 - 2010-08)

• Mentored at-risk youth in life skills, discipline, and personal development.
• Developed individualized success plans and tracked student progress.

Associate Degree - Culinary Arts - Le Cordon Bleu Chicago