The Barbary, before taking on the role of head chef at Jacob the Angel earlier this year.
Do you think there was enough advice available when you were starting out?
No. At school, they don’t tend to push creative careers, or tell you that being a chef is a viable option. Also, I don’t think that cookery school is very accessible for many people, as they are so expensive.
What are your ultimate top five tips for someone looking to start a career in the hospitality sector?
- Do a stage in a kitchen. You need to see if you actually enjoy working in that environment, and what type of food you like making.
- Eat a lot of different food for the same reasons. It’s also great to eat out and see what other people are doing.
- Read about food as much as you can.
- Teach yourself to be organised and clean, as these are two of the most important things a chef can be.
- As a woman, don't be intimidated by the male-dominant kitchens.
What are you looking for on a CV or in an interview if someone was applying for a position with you?
For me, it’s more about the person than their CV. If someone is inexperienced you can teach them to cook. You can tell if someone has natural talent nine times out of ten.
If you could go back and tell yourself one piece of advice, knowing what you now know, what would it be?
Don't take things too seriously!
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