The expert panelOur expert panel comprises representatives from the Hotel and Catering Training Company (HCTC), Accor Hotels UK & Ireland, Greene King Pub Company, MaydayExec, Bartlett Mitchell, Learnpurple, Conran, and Portfolio International.
The questionI've worked in the coffee business as both a barista/manager and a roaster/taster. I'm heading towards opening my own business, but would like more experience first. Where are the jobs for an experienced barista?
With the explosion of coffee houses in this country, more opportunities have opened up. Companies such as Starbucks and Coffee Republic employ experienced baristas to manage their coffee bars or to carry out the individually tailored training of new staff, guiding them through the minefield of cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos to ensure a consistent product. In-house consultants are responsible for dealing with suppliers and monitoring the coffee blends.
Alternatively, you could approach companies supplying coffee to small businesses or caterers. Organising coffee tasting for potential customers is an essential part of developing the business, along with ensuring consistent quality and sourcing of new blends. Your background would allow you to fulfil these needs, and offer comprehensive training to employees of your customers.
Either of these would stand you in good stead for starting your own business, be it in your own coffee bar or supplying others with your chosen coffee blends.
Wendy Bartlett, director, Bartlett Mitchell
If you'd like to submit a question, send it to chris.druce@rbi.co.uk.