The success of any business is a reflection of its people. Charlton House is one of the most respected, vibrant and cutting edge companies within the food service industry today. We are very different, and we thrive on those differences. Our co-founders, Robyn and Tim Jones, have instilled an open culture where every one has a voice at every level of the company, and all are treated with respect and dignity. For anyone determined to succeed, Charlton House is the place.
As an Investor in People Company since 1998, we believe in the value of training and developing employees at all levels, allowing them to grow and to maximise their skills, creativity and career potential. In fact, we invest four times the average amount on training compared to our competitors. At least 20% of our employees receive formal training each month. Internal promotions are also much, much higher than most.
We are extremely open-minded as to the professional background of our people, believing that given the right raw ingredients, we can adapt existing skills and apply them to the food service arena.
In terms of recent new initiatives, our Michelin-starred food innovation director, David Cavalier, co-ordinates monthly ‘Twilight Workshops’ for chefs. There is always a waiting list for these highly successful and popular sessions, which cover everything from creating deli food to simple desserts. We also hold an annual Chefs’ Conference and a bi annual Salon Culinaire. Food obviously features top of our list of priorities but above all, we encourage creative talent and a sharing of ideas across every facet of the company.
Another initiative is our ‘Buddy System’ where each new member of staff is assigned a “buddy” who mentors and supports them throughout the first three months at Charlton House.
Our incentives and award schemes ensure that every single person gets the recognition they deserve. Our annual conference, our coveted ‘Unit of the Year’, ‘Clean Kitchen’ and Special Achievement’ awards are just some of the ways in which we show our appreciation.
We have also introduced a ‘Golden Envelope’ scheme to thank people who have made some outstanding contribution to the company. These are awarded during our annual conference, and ensure public recognition of individuals’ achievements. The ‘Golden Envelope’ scheme is highly structured, with recipients being nominated formally by their managers/directors.
Each and every member of staff receives a birthday card, a Christmas present and an Easter gift.
Charlton House is a family business, and we do our utmost to have fun along away, from our bi-monthly Pizza Fridays at Head Office to our renowned belly dancing sessions. (Shakers and movers, apply now!)
We are now the largest independent food service company in the UK to have grown organically through word of mouth and recommendations - not through acquisitions. That says a lot about who we are and what we stand for.
Our portfolio has many internationally respected names such as Sony, Hitachi and Lovells, as well as high profile Government contracts and corporate headquarters of leading UK companies. Annual turnover currently stands at £47 million, which we expect to double over the next five years. Join us now and grow with us.
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