I want to follow a career as a chef

Question

"I graduated in June 2000 with a BA(Hons) in Hospitality Management with Tourism. During my degree I did work experience at a hotel in London for 13 months in various departments. Although I have always been interested in catering, it was during my time in London that I realised that I would like to follow a career as a chef.

"Due to my financial situation after university I thought it best to get a job in another field first that pays well. I am currently working in London as a migration consultant and have been doing so for almost a year now. My father is a chef at home in Ireland and I have worked under his supervision during school holidays etc since I was 12. I would love to become a chef one day, but I think it is now time that I started to gain more experience in catering and hopefully undertake training/education as a chef, possibly on a day-release from work.

"Do you know any employers that do this or where I can look for any help in this matter? I will be looking to work in southern or northern Ireland."

Jocelyn Ladley

What the expert says

Ian Hall, director of human resources, Aramark

!

"This is something of a one-off situation. Your best bet is probably to write to a number of contract caterers. They often have programmes designed to develop chefs from among their existing staff. If you could secure a role as an assistant manager or supervisor (based on your experience and qualifications to date) you would have a strong chance of gradually moving into your preferred role in the kitchen."