Lori Swahn

Willing to relocate to: Philadelphia, PA

Chef - Presbyterian Senior Living - Dillsburg, PA

(2024-02 - 2026-05)

• Created and executed innovative menus, incorporating seasonal ingredients and culinary trends
• Ensured consistent quality of food preparation by implementing standardized recipes and cooking techniques
• Maintained inventory levels and controlled costs through effective ordering and stock management

Head Chef - American Legion Post 272 - Harrisburg, PA

(2018-10 - 2023-12)

• Resurrected menu to 70% scratch kitchen
• Re developed entire catering menus to increase sales revenue by 50%
• Created system to control waste and spoilage and increase food turnover by 60%

Food Service Director/Chef - Wynwood House Personal Care Home - State College, PA

(2016-03 - 2018-09)

• Place working budget into 6-week cycle menus for 4 building of 125 residents
• Trained and supervisor staff of 15 to enforce striated adherence to sanitation
• Worked with nutritionist to supply 3 daily meals and snacks in accordance to diets

Chef - New Britain Inn - New Britain, PA

(2012-03 - 2016-03)

• Updated menu to bring bar to high-end gastropub
• Increased profitability by 30% with controlling preparation and wasted
• Strengthen clients relationship by providing quality services and communications
• Reduce food cost 15%
• Changed menu to scratch cooking by 80% and used local farms venues for stability

Sous chef - Heirlooms Restaurant - Chestnut Hill, PA

(2010-05 - 2012-02)

• Supervised staff of 7 in 3 star fine dining
• Led pre shift meeting to educate staff on menu items and daily specials
• Sourcing with local farmers for provisions and produce

Sous Chef - Revival Restaurant - Peskie, PA

(2008-12 - 2010-05)

• Properly labeled and stored all food ingredients in appropriate storerooms, refrigeration and freezers
• Actively involved in inventory, sanitation and training staff
• Participate in menu specials and catering events

Chef - Walnut Woods Retirement Home - Philadelphia, PA

(2005-04 - 2007-11)

• Led shifts while personally preparing food items and executing requests base on required specifications
• Prepared food items consistently and in compliance with recipes, portions, cooking and waste control guidelines
• Preform daily ordering and inventory

Sous Chef - Jimmy Duffy's & Sons Catering - Berwyn, PA

(1999-05 - 2005-07)

• Instructed staff in proper food preparation, food storage, use of kitchen equipment and utensils
• Set up off site catering events for effective functional and sanitation kitchen environment
• Communication effectively to control event party

Associate in Arts - Cooking - Culinary Institute of America (1983-04 - 1986-06)