Jodi Mac Donald

PASTRY CHEF • DEMI CHEF DE PARTIE • BAKER

Talent

StellenboschMember since August 12, 2026

Celebration CakesArtisan BreadsHACCPMise en PlaceStock RotationAttention to Detail

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About

Creative and dedicated Pastry Chef with professional experience in luxury hospitality, fine dining, and artisan baking. Experienced in producing restaurant-quality plated desserts, French pastries, artisan breads, and celebration cakes while maintaining exceptional presentation, consistency, and efficiency in fast-paced professional kitchens. Skilled in food preparation, dessert plating, HACCP food safety, stock rotation, and working collaboratively within high-performing culinary teams.

Recognized for a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a passion for continuous learning. Currently seeking opportunities as a Pastry Chef, Demi Chef De Partie, Chef De Partie, or Baker within a luxury hotel, wine estate, or fine dining establishment where I can contribute my skills while continuing to grow professionally.

Experience

Pastry Chef / Pastry Intern - Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa

(2025-05 - 2026-02)

Prepared and presented high-quality plated desserts, pastries, and baked goods for à la carte service, events, and functions.
Produced French pastries, including choux pastry, éclairs, and macarons, while maintaining consistency and presentation standards.
Assisted in creating seasonal dessert offerings and menu items.
Ensured all food was prepared in accordance with HACCP food safety and hygiene standards.
Collaborated with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to ensure smooth daily operations.

Pastry Chef Intern / Pastry Commis - Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg - Johannesburg

(2024-07 - 2025-03)

Assisted the pastry team in producing premium desserts for a luxury five-star hotel environment.
Prepared plated desserts, pastries, and bakery items according to luxury hotel standards.
Worked closely with senior chefs to develop technical pastry skills and fine-dining presentations.
Supported banquet, restaurant, overnight bakery production, and event dessert preparations.

Kitchen Assistant / Commis Intern - Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa

(2023-07 - 2024-01)

Assisted with kitchen preparation, mise en place, and professional food service across multiple sections.
Followed recipes accurately and maintained strict kitchen hygiene and quality standards.

Pastry and Bakery Intern - Black Forest Bakery - Johannesburg

(2019-01 - 2019-08)

Assisted with daily commercial bakery production of artisan breads, pastries, and confectionery.
Prepared doughs, batters, and baked goods to precise quality and production standards.

Culinary Intern - University of Johannesburg Canteen and Restaurant - Johannesburg

(2018-01 - 2018-08)

Assisted chefs with daily food preparation, ingredients management, and kitchen operations.
Maintained cleanliness and followed HACCP food safety guidelines across different sections.

Culinary Intern - Gold Reef City Casino - Johannesburg

(2017-01 - 2017-08)

Assisted chefs in high-volume, fast-paced restaurant kitchens and banquet operations.
Prepared ingredients and maintained high presentation standards during intensive service periods.

Assistant Baker (Part-time) - Val's Freshly Baked

(2015-01)

Produced a variety of artisan breads, pastries, and baked goods for retail sales.
Decorated cakes, prepared desserts for customer orders, and assisted with stock management.