What did you want to do when you were at school/college?
A Chef/Restaurateur
How did you first get into the industry?
Secondary School, work experience
Where did you go to find out information about careers in the industry?
College
What industry relevant qualifications/awards do you have?
O.N.D., H.N.D
Please briefly outline your career so far.
Food & Beverage Manager, Newcastle, Forte Hotels UK
Food & Beverage Manger, Newcastle, Swallow Hotels UK
Catering Manager, Newcastle, Eurest UK
Group Business Manager, North East, Eurest UK
General Manager, ARAMARK UK
District Manager, Washington DC, ARAMARK US
District Manager, Virginia, ARAMARK US
Food Services & Marketing, ARAMARK UK
What do you do in a typical day? Please give an account that takes us through the day from start to end.
Check with elements of the business that have had new concepts, programs in place, answer calls, questions and queries from the business. Attend sites to check standards and if any support is required. Attend sales presentations, refurbishments and support the operational team.
What do you like most about your job?
Making a difference, with customers, clients and colleagues
What do you like the least about your job?
Losing business
What was your most memorable day at work? Was it something funny, a disaster that you helped overcome, seeing someone famous, a challenge ……
Executing the International Monetary Fund Holiday Party in Washington DC. I had recently joined the ARAMARK US team and had a great deal to prove. The function was for 5000 people over 4 levels of the building with 8 live bands 12 themed buffets including 6 live stations for nationalities from 180 countries. The night went perfectly well within budget and to raving reports.
A great deal of pressure but “WHAT A BUZZ”
What do you think is great about your sector/the hospitality industry?
The versatility, flexibility and the fact that it touched everyone in one way or another
What do you think could be improved in the sector/industry?
Customer Service!
What are your tips to young people starting out in the industry?
Head down. I know that it is a cliché, but the more that you put in the more you get out!
What do you do in your spare time?
Socialise, entertain and spend time with the family a great deal of this revolves around food, dining and living life.