Deziree Klema
Sous Chef
Deziree Klema has worked with Bon Appétit Management Company for 19 years, many of them at Target North Campus in Brooklyn Park, MN.
Deziree’s secret to success? A black-and-white photo of her grandparents from 1949 that hangs in her home kitchen as a reminder of the strong work ethic and passion for cooking they instilled in her at a young age. “The more that people know, the more work they do” she says, repeating a lesson she learned from her hardworking elders, who owned a diner.
Having always had her eyes set on achieving a leadership position in the kitchen, Deziree jumped in feet first to learn the ins and outs of different departments, pouring her heart and soul into the process.
In 2001, Deziree arrived at Target North, working her way up through several roles to become lead cook; she later was promoted to sous chef. “I’m learning my own boundaries, discovering what I’m good at and doing things that I didn’t think I could or had the courage to do,” she shares.
One of the things she’s exceptionally good at? Teaching. “Deziree leads by example, praises Line Cook Evangeline Platt. “Her leadership always starts with a willing heart, a positive attitude, and a desire to make a difference.” To Deziree, teaching is an investment in building a stronger team.
Deziree’s journey of pushing herself to constantly learn has opened the doors for her — and others — to achieve more.