Question
I have worked as a chef-manager in contract catering and am currently studying computers at college. With 20 years' experience as a chef and six years as a chef-manager, I feel I could use my knowledge and experience for a different role. Do you have any suggestions for a possible career change?
Answers
Wendy Bartlett, director, Bartlett Mitchell:
The immediate next step that springs to mind is that of catering manager. With your new skills in computing, you would be well equipped to apply your food knowledge and experience to lead and develop a larger team, backing it up with the ability to produce professional marketing materials and effective costing formats to manage budgets and develop the business.
A relief manager assisting with contract openings is another possible role that would allow you to use and develop your skills. Implementing systems and setting standards requires balancing a passion for food, strong organisational skills and an outgoing personality. Good first impressions are imperative, therefore an "all-round" skill base such as you have would be ideal. This role could also provide a stepping stone towards a role in area management or sales and marketing, either in contract catering or, perhaps, moving towards the retail sector.
Julian Bradwell, human resources director, Greene King Pub Company:
Pub management could be an opportunity, where the food part of the business is high. Look for opportunities for trainee management before taking on your own business. Many companies would look for catering skills to drive their overall pub or restaurant business.
Jane Sunley, managing director, learnpurple:
Start by making a list of your strengths, including your newly honed IT skills. Then make an appointment to see your boss or someone in your organisation's human resources department, letting them know in advance that you would like to discuss career options.
I feel sure your company will wish to retain you and help you find a more challenging position. If they don't have anything available, put your new skills into operation in your current role ASAP, and update your CV showing what value you can add to an organisation. Next, apply for something new. The easiest way is via a specialist recruitment consultancy which will advsie you on options and sell your skills for you.
Johnny Johnson, communications manager, Hotel and Catering Training Company (HCTC):
With your wealth of experience in catering, you may want to move into a training role.This would utilise your skills in a very different way. People who have made the move into training find the work very rewarding, plus it's a natural transition for those who no longer want to spend their working life in the heat of the kitchen.
Contact HCTC to find out more about training careers in the hospitality industry.
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