Kristen Lorenz

Kristen Lorenz has a diverse work experience spanning various industries. Kristen is currently the Head of Creative at The Spice & Tea Exchange. Prior to that, they worked as an Independent Consultant, where they served as the Director of Training & Development, Culinary Innovation Chef, and Food & Beverage Design. In this role, they excelled in driving product and recipe innovation, consulting with global corporations, and designing training strategies.

Before their consultancy role, Kristen held positions at Rishi Tea & Botanicals, where they were the Director of Culinary Development & Training, and an Education & Culinary Specialist. Kristen was responsible for leading food and beverage development, training programs, and introducing culinary applications to attract new audiences and drive sales.

Kristen also co-founded the culinary services company Soigné Culinary Artistry, where they served as the Executive Chef and Partner. In this role, they consulted with Fortune 500 companies, led innovation and design initiatives, and facilitated corporate team-building and training initiatives.

Prior to that, they worked at Newell Brands, Calphalon Corporation as a Chef Instructor and Food Stylist, teaching cooking classes and developing recipes for a consumer-based culinary center. Kristen also gained experience in the restaurant industry as a Line Cook at Tru Restaurant, part of Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, and as a Line Cook and Pastry Cook at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

Kristen began their career at Hallmark Cards as a Marketing Strategist, specializing in new product development.

Overall, Kristen Lorenz has extensive experience in culinary innovation, training and development, product development, and marketing strategy, making their a highly skilled and versatile professional.

Kristen Lorenz holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in Marketing from The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. Kristen also obtained a Grand Diploma in Classic French Cuisine & Technique from the International Culinary Center. In addition, they hold a Diploma in Southeast Asian Cuisine & Technique from At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy in Singapore and a Diploma in Sushi & Saké Training from the California Sushi Academy in Los Angeles, where they trained under Master Sushi Chef Toshi Sugiura.

Moreover, Kristen has obtained several certifications to enhance their professional skills. Kristen holds a ServSafe Food Handler certification from the National Restaurant Association obtained in July 2020. In June 2018, they completed the Introductory Sommelier Course & Examination offered by The Court of Master Sommeliers. Additionally, Kristen obtained a Level II Saké Specialist certification, although the specific details regarding the institution and the date of achievement are not provided.