An accomplished and dedicated culinary leader with over 16 years of hands-on experience in high-end hospitality and luxury resort kitchens. Starting his career at the age of 18 while completing his technical education, Chef Abou Elwafa has built a stellar track record across premier Red Sea destinations. Known for rigorous adherence to HACCP safety protocols, effective station management, and exceptional staff mentorship, he excels at driving kitchen efficiency and elevating guest dining satisfaction.
Core Competencies & Skills
- Kitchen Operations: Daily station management, inventory tracking, digital requisition processing, and seamless communication with executive leadership.
- Safety & Compliance: Comprehensive execution of HACCP standards, food safety risk management, fire safety procedures, and stewarding management.
- Leadership & Training: Cross-departmental mentoring, team instruction, and high-volume multi-unit support.
- Languages & Tech: Arabic (Native), English (Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing), and operational proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Office suites.
Professional Experience
Caribbean World Resort Soma Bay (Red Sea)
- Senior Sous Chef (July 2024 – Present)
- Chef Garde Manger (February 2014 – July 2024)
- Directs pantry and cold kitchen operations across luxury resort facilities.
- Oversees station hygiene, standardized recipe execution, inventory rotation, and emergency response protocols.
Sonesta Pharaoh Beach Resort
- Senior Chef de Partie (November 2012 – June 2014)
- Chef de Partie (September 2011 – October 2012)
- Supervised high-volume banquet and à la carte line operations, ensuring strict compliance with quality guidelines.
Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel
- Demi Chef de Partie (July 2010 – September 2011)
- Assisted in menu execution, food storage organization, and junior staff training.
Early Resort Tenures (2006 – 2010)
- Seagull Beach Resort – First Commis (December 2007 – May 2010)
- Siva Grand Beach – Second Commis (June 2007 – November 2007) & Third Commis (June 2006 – June 2007)
- Built foundational skills in station preparation, food handling, and kitchen safety.
Honors & Recognition
- Supervisor of the Month – Caribbean World Resort
- Employee/Certificate of the Month – Sonesta Pharaoh Beach Resort
- Certificate of the Month – Seagull Beach Resort
- Letters of Commendation – Received formal appreciation letters from Executive Chef Yousef Bhatti and multiple Hotel Managers for outstanding performance.
Education & Certifications
- Industrial Technical Diploma: Graduation Year 2000/2001.
- Professional Development & Training:
- Food Safety (HACCP) & Food Safety Risk Management
- Train the Trainer & Food & Beverage Skills Development
- Handling Guest Complaints & WOW Guest Service
- Fire Safety Training
