In brief why do you like working in food service/catering?
I have always worked in the service Industry. I love that each day is different and that life is never dull. It can be really hard sometimes but on the other hand it can be extremely rewarding. You need a whole host of skills to be able to survive and I don't know that there is another profession where you need to use them all together!
In brief what do you get out of working in the industry and at Sodexo?
To me it's about being able to provide help and assistance, to be able to really make a difference to someone. I need to enjoy what I do and being here I love the team that I work with. They make it a pleasure, but not always easy!!
Sodexho offers me the opportunity to develop and grow. They listen to ideas and suggestions and you feel that you are really running 'our own businesses'.
Your advice to new recruits to the industry.
If you want a nice Monday to Friday job working 09.00-17.00 don't work in this industry. It you like to work hard and play hard it's for you. You need to be a 'people' person as no one can do this alone. You need to have a go at everything from the wash up to the silver service - you'll then only appreciate your teams when you know how tough it is for them.
Qualifications
BTec National and higher National Diploma in Hotel, Catering & Institutional Operations
Advanced Food Hygiene Diploma
IOSH Managing Safely