Why we’re so passionate about working in hospitality, catering and events

If you like the idea of working somewhere with a great atmosphere where everyone is having a good time, the hospitality industry is the perfect place to be.

It’s also the UK’s third biggest employer.  So, if you haven’t yet thought about providing hospitality services in restaurants, hotels, venues and outdoor locations, here’s why you should give it go.

It’s exciting

For Royal Navy chef and former Walsall College student, Liam Fletcher, working in hospitality is a bit of an adventure.

“I cook for over 250 military personnel three times a day and take part in various naval activities,” he said.  “I also get to travel the world and see different countries and cultures.”

As a restaurant manager, responsible for a team of 15, Rosie Pointon is enthused when she sees her colleagues adapting and developing within different roles.  Not only does this improve their work ethic but also their service skills.

“It’s one of the highlights of the job,” she says, “It makes each day different and enables me to develop as a manager by constantly guiding my team.”

There’s also joy in building customer rapports, working towards five star reviews and becoming a source of competition with other venues.

It’s creative

A fusion of Caribbean and Mexican foods has made Siana Walker’s street food enterprise, Burr-Eat-Oh a sizzling success at food festivals in Solihull and Brixton.

“I’m always passionate about the recipes I create,” said Siana.  “I’m lucky I get to bring this into my work every single day.”

It’s fast-paced

Hospitality and events are always about being on the go.  Impeccable timing and multi-tasking are essential.

As a night duty manager at Penta Hotel, Jordan Arblaster oversees everything from room service orders and bar service to providing guests with extra pillows and quilts.

“You’re micromanaging the hotel yourself,” Jordan explained.  “It’s all about preparation and identifying the best way to get things to the people that need them.”

He added: “This hotel dynamic makes it a brilliant place to work.”

It’s rewarding

The feelgood factor in the industry is bound to be high when you’re surrounded by satisfied, loyal customers and clients.

An award or two is always nice as well.

A constant stream of 4 and 5-Star reviews on TripAdvisor and being named Business of the Year by Thebestof.co.uk Walsall are just two things that make working at Walsall College’s restaurant, The Littleton so enjoyable.

Here’s Head Chef, Steve Biggs’ take on this.

“There’s a real pride in making sure the quality of our food is consistent.  We also source as much local produce as possible.  The essential ingredient is course providing a great service from both front and back of house.”

So, although dining out and being at events is rather different at the moment, there are plenty of ways for the industry to continue to wow people with awesome food and an amazing atmosphere.

Restaurant deliveries, hiring chefs for private dinner parties, virtual, online events and socially distant public gatherings, mean there are plenty of ways for roles to adapt and be in demand well into the future.

And Walsall College’s wide range of courses can help get you industry-ready.  Find out more here.