Michelle Morton
Burlington
Summary
Entrepreneurial professional with over 25 years of experience in hospitality and financial services. Proven track record in managing business operations, including event coordination, team leadership, and financial oversight. Recognized for exceptional client service and building strong relationships that drive business growth and repeat clientele.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner / Operator / Chef
Michelle’s Kitchen and Catering
11.2007 - 02.2026
- Owned and operated a successful catering and retail food business, managing all daily operations
- Planned and executed catered events, overseeing logistics, menu creation, and client experience
- Led hiring, training, and scheduling of staff to ensure efficient and high-quality service
- Managed budgeting, invoicing, and financial tracking to ensure profitability and accuracy
- Oversaw inventory, purchasing, and vendor negotiations to control costs and maintain supply
- Developed marketing strategies, including social media promotion, to increase customer engagement and attract new clients
- Cultivated long-term client relationships that generated consistent repeat business and referrals
- Ensured compliance with food safety standards and operational regulations
Culinary Team Member
Fearrington House
Chapel Hill
02.2001 - 06.2007
- Supported kitchen operations through effective food preparation and timely service
- Contributed to team efficiency by collaborating in a fast-paced hospitality environment
- Assisted with retail food service and enhanced customer interactions to improve satisfaction
- Maintained cleanliness and organization in accordance with food safety standards
Customer Service Representative / Assistant Manager / Mortgage Lender
First Union Bank
08.1990 - 10.2000
- Originated and processed mortgage loans, guiding clients through application and approval
- Maintained compliance with financial regulations and lending standards
- Secured and maintained broker license to facilitate mortgage lending processes
- Provided high-level customer service, enhancing client satisfaction in fast-paced financial environment
- Built strong client relationships through trust and effective communication
- Coordinated daily operations and staff activities, improving administrative efficiency
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Montreat College
Montreat, NCCulinary Arts Studies -
Guilford Technical Community College
Greensboro, NCSkills
- Business ownership and operations management
- Customer service and client relations
- Event planning and catering coordination
- Culinary preparation and food service
- Team leadership and staff development
- Financial services and mortgage lending
- QuickBooks and financial management
- Inventory management and vendor relations
- Social media marketing and promotion
- Retail and front-of-house operations
Timeline
Owner / Operator / Chef
Michelle’s Kitchen and Catering
11.2007 - 02.2026
Culinary Team Member
Fearrington House
02.2001 - 06.2007
Customer Service Representative / Assistant Manager / Mortgage Lender
First Union Bank
08.1990 - 10.2000
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Montreat College
Culinary Arts Studies -
Guilford Technical Community College