Available to hire
Hi, I’m Sterling Walker III. I’m a hospitality operations leader with deep expertise in food safety, SOPs, audits, risk and compliance, and team-building in high-pressure environments. I build scalable, guest-focused operations for large venues and cross-border teams, delivering consistent quality while safeguarding people and the bottom line.
My background spans US, Hong Kong, and Europe, with brand-adjacent leadership roles at Apple, Tesla, and Wolfgang Puck. I thrive on mentoring teams, designing cost-conscious menus, and implementing robust processes that protect guests and the business alike.
Skills
Experience Level
Expert
Language
English
Fluent
Work Experience
Head Chef at Dr. Fern’s residents Gin Parlor
January 1, 2025 - PresentCreate and manage staff schedules based on service demand; delegate tasks and ensure smooth service during busy periods; maintain discipline, morale, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment; conduct staff training on recipes, food safety, and equipment use; handle hiring input, onboarding, and performance feedback; menu development & execution; design and update a bar-appropriate menu (cost-effective, fast to execute, popular items); standardize recipes and portion sizes for consistency; inventory, ordering & cost control; health, safety & compliance; operational management; problem solving & service recovery.
Culinary Supervisor / Food Safety Manager at Apple Inc.
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2025Spearheaded the implementation of a new food safety program across multiple locations, including Sunnyvale and Apple Park. Managed kitchen operations and menu planning for events serving over 700 attendees. Conducted staff training and updated SOP documentation, resulting in improved compliance and staff promotions. Applied project management methodologies to oversee staffing, onboarding, and operational initiatives. Led team meetings to address high-risk issues, providing actionable solutions and ensuring consistent operational excellence.
Tesla Advisor – PDC/VRI Teams at Tesla Factory
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2022Engaged with customers to educate them on Tesla’s products and services. Managed sales pipelines, achieving and exceeding monthly sales and KPI targets. Conducted vehicle orientations and processed customer documentation during delivery. Supported showroom operations, ensuring seamless delivery processes and exceptional customer experiences.
Startup Intern at Hollywood Hippy
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2019Compiled marketing metrics and assisted with strategy development for a community-focused website. Supported executive operations and conducted research to accelerate outreach goals.
Corporate Chef – Estate Event Chef at Wolfgang Puck Events
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2013Managed budgets, staffing, and menu planning for high-profile events, including the Oscars Governor’s Ball.
Sous Chef at Church and State
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2013Oversaw daily menu planning and seasonal ingredient integration for a prime French-style establishment. Trained staff and managed inventory, ensuring smooth operations.
Roast Lead at Le Cirque Restaurant
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2012Reduced food waste through improved kitchen practices and efficient product management. Trained and collaborated with station leads to enhance kitchen operations.
Chef de Partie at Crosby Street Hotel
January 1, 2010 - January 1, 2011Organized VIP and celebrity events, ensuring high-quality production and customer satisfaction.
Proteins/Fish Chef – Lead Line Chef at Tabla Restaurant
January 1, 2008 - January 1, 2010Managed station training and menu execution for a Michelin-starred establishment. Supported sister restaurants during special events.
Lead Chef – Events & Catering at Gramercy Park Hotel
January 1, 2006 - January 1, 2007Oversaw daily setup, inventory, and staffing for VIP events.
Lead Chef | Event Chef at Chateau Marmont & Standard Hotel
January 1, 2001 - January 1, 2004Delivered tailored menus for VIP clients and events, ensuring dietary requirements were met.
Education
PMP Certification at De Anza College
January 1, 2016 - January 15, 2026Culinary Arts Certification at Trade Tech Culinary Arts, Los Angeles, CA
January 1, 1999 - January 1, 1999Culinary Arts Certification at Tech Culinary Arts, Los Angeles, CA
January 1, 1999 - January 1, 1999Certified Project Manager (PMP Certification) at De Anza College, Cupertino, CA
January 1, 2016 - January 15, 2026Culinary Arts Certification at Trade Tech Culinary Arts, Los Angeles, CA
January 1, 1999 - January 15, 2026Qualifications
PMP Certification
January 1, 2016 - January 15, 2026Certified Project Manager (PMP Certification)
January 1, 2016 - January 15, 2026Industry Experience
Travel & Hospitality, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Other
Skills
Experience Level
Expert
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