I embarked on my journey in the hospitality industry by starting as a dishwasher in a quaint village pub. However, my true passion for hospitality and catering soon became evident, propelling me to dedicate the next 15 years to advancing my career with the National Trust. During this time, I achieved the position of portfolio manager, responsible for three distinct establishments. I was often at the forefront of implementing pioneering processes and systems, which encompassed areas such as food safety protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), among others.
My journey continued as I transitioned to regional management, overseeing more than 20 schools, both primary and secondary, in collaboration with Chartwells. This experience provided me with valuable insights into the critical importance of allergen management, as it directly impacted the safety of all individuals. Managing production kitchens that catered to up to seven schools, I recognized that the safe and efficient transportation of food was the next crucial phase of the culinary journey.
In my most recent role as the Regional Account Manager and Health and Safety Ambassador for Airport Lounges with Sodexo, I supervised operations across four Emirates Lounges, amongst others. My primary focus was to ensure that Health & Safety remained a top priority within the context of UK aviation hospitality sector. This encompassed overseeing airside deliveries, orchestrating meticulous food setups, navigating various exemptions, and accommodating the diverse religious food standards, all while maintaining a consistently high standard of service.
