Hayato Nishiyama
Washington
Summary
Experienced professional with expertise in launching new store kitchens for Panda Express. Skilled in enforcing company policies and operational procedures, training and mentoring kitchen associates, and ensuring consistent food quality and safety standards. Proven ability to lead teams through successful grand openings by fostering a culture of compliance, efficiency, and excellence
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
NSO Chef
Panda Express
03.2025 - Current
- Train associates on the K1 and K2 modules.
- Provides training and operational support with the NSO and ops teams during new store openings.
- Conducts needs assessments to identify training needs for the stores.
- Serves as a role model by upholding company policies and training standards.
Chef
Panda Express
10.2023 - 03.2025
- Lead back of the house operations ensuring compliance with food safety standards, recipe execution, and efficient kitchen workflow.
- supervise and train team members in cooking procedures, food prep, and safety practices; support ongoing development and succession planning.
- support front of the house operations as needed to maintain smooth restaurant performance and outstanding guest experiences.
- Assist General Manager in achieving store financial targets through effective inventory control, labor management, and cost reduction strategies.
- Execute all GM responsibilities in their absence, including scheduling, staff management, disciplinary action, and administrative duties.
Cook
Panda Express
11.2018 - 09.2023
- Prepare all dishes, ensuring they meet company standard's for taste and appearance.
- Maintain a clean and safe kitchen, follow proper procedures for handling equipment, and assist the GM/AM/Chef with scheduling and other operational duties as needed.
- Cultivate and live Panda's mission, culture, and values. Participate in creating an empowering environment for the team and providing guidance to kitchen help associates.
- May assist the General manager with administrative tasks such as ordering food items.
Education
Exercise Science
Illinois State University
Normal, IL05-2023
Skills
NSO Chef (opening 4 stores)
Top 50 KPI
Timeline
NSO Chef
Panda Express
03.2025 - Current
Chef
Panda Express
10.2023 - 03.2025
Cook
Panda Express
11.2018 - 09.2023
Exercise Science
Illinois State University
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