Rufat Rzayev

Experience

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  Gulustan Palaca

  May 2004 - Feb 2008

  Demi Chef De Partie
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  5 Gazan Restaurant

  Oct 2009 - Jun 2011

  Chef De Partie
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  Park Restaurant Group

  Jun 2011 - Feb 2013

  Head Chef
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  Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers

  Feb 2013 - Apr 2017

  Senior Chef Partie
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  Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

  Apr 2017 - May 2019

  Junior Sous Chef
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  Fairmont Dubai

  Nov 2017 - Dec 2017

  Task Force
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  Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers

  Oct 2019 - Oct 2021

  Sous Chef
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  Afford Pizza & Cafeteria

  Mar 2021 - Mar 2025

  Founder

  Founded a fast-casual pizzeria offering high-quality, affordable gourmet pizzas.Directed the end-to-end process of launching and managing the restaurant, from securing locations to implementing marketing strategies.Developed signature recipes and standardized preparation processes to maintain consistency and efficiency.Built a loyal customer base through exceptional food quality, competitive pricing, and strategic community engagement.Continuously adapted the business model to meet market trends and customer preferences, ensuring long-term success Show less

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  Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

  Oct 2021 - Jan 2023

  Chef De Cuisine

  ResponsibilitiesCulinary LeadershipDirected the culinary team in planning, preparing, and executing banquet services for events ranging from small gatherings to large-scale functions accommodating up to 600 guests.Collaborated with event organizers and clients, including government officials and VIPs, to design bespoke menus tailored to event themes, dietary preferences, and cultural requirements.Ensured seamless coordination between the banquet kitchen and service teams to deliver exceptional dining experiences.Menu Development and ExecutionCreated innovative and seasonal banquet menus, balancing creativity with operational feasibility and cost efficiency.Oversaw the preparation and presentation of high-quality dishes, maintaining consistency in flavor, portioning, and aesthetics.Conducted menu tastings for clients to finalize selections and ensure satisfaction.Client and Guest RelationsMaintained a strong focus on guest satisfaction by anticipating needs and exceeding expectations.Event Planning CollaborationEnsured alignment with event schedules and adapted to last-minute changes or requirements without compromising quality. Show less

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  Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers

  Jan 2023 - now

  Senior Sous Chef

  ResponsibilitiesCulinary OperationsManaged diverse culinary operations across Le Bistro Restaurant (International Cuisine), Balcon Cafe (Grab-and-Go Sandwiches), Bar19 Restaurant (Asian Cuisine), Room Service, Pool Bar Restaurant, and large-scale banquet events.Developed and executed menus tailored to each outlet, ensuring consistency, quality, and alignment with guest preferences.Le Bistro Restaurant (International Cuisine)Curated an international menu highlighting innovative recipes and fresh ingredients to cater to a global audience.Supervised food preparation and presentation, ensuring high-quality dining experiences for guests.Balcon Cafe (Grab-and-Go)Streamlined operations for quick-service sandwiches, snacks, and beverages, focusing on efficiency and presentation for takeaway items.Monitored inventory and staff scheduling to handle high guest volumes effectively.Bar19 Restaurant (Asian Cuisine)Designed and implemented authentic Asian menus, integrating modern culinary techniques and traditional flavors.Trained staff in specialized Asian cooking methods to maintain authenticity and excellence.Room ServiceOversaw the preparation and timely delivery of customized in-room dining, accommodating guest preferences and dietary needs.Ensured seamless coordination between kitchen and service teams to uphold a VIP service standard.Banquet Events (Up to 600 Guests)Directed culinary planning and execution for high-profile events, including government and VIP functions.Collaborated with event planners to create bespoke menus, accommodating large-scale operations and dietary requirements.Pool Bar RestaurantManaged poolside dining, offering casual yet refined food and beverage options tailored to seasonal demand.Maintained strict compliance with food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, ServSafe) across all outlets.Monitored food costs, inventory, and supplier negotiations to optimize profitability and reduce waste.. Show less

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  Evin6 Restaurant

  Mar 2023 - Mar 2025

  Founder

  Established a contemporary dining concept focusing on innovative cuisine and exceptional guest experiences.Oversaw all aspects of restaurant development, including concept creation, menu design, branding, and operations.Recruited, trained, and led a high-performing team to ensure consistent service quality and operational excellence.Managed finances, including budgeting, cost control, and profitability analysis, achieving sustained revenue growth.Fostered strong relationships with suppliers and partners to ensure high-quality ingredients and seamless operations. Show less