Acorns 2019: Rebecca Armstrong, 28
Operations manager, the Genuine Dining Co (GDC)
Nominator Chris Mitchell, managing director, GDC
Proudest moment "Being promoted to operations manager with GDC at the age of 27."
Greatest inspiration "My parents, because they have supported me through every decision I've made and have helped me realise my potential. Chris Mitchell has played a huge part in my development, too. He encourages me to be a better operator and his passion for catering is inspiring."
Why hospitality is a great career "Every day is different and there are so many paths to take, you can make your career your own. You'll work with great people, constantly learning and experiencing new things."
Armed with a 2:1 degree in International Hospitality Management, Rebecca Armstrong was scooped up by BaxterStorey as a graduate trainee manager in 2013 and, within three years, had risen to catering manager at Deutsche Bank, its £1m contract and flagship site.
She now oversees seven sites with seven direct reports, 43 staff and a combined turnover of £3m a year - and she's on course to deliver 15% revenue growth against forecast.
One of her sites, News UK, owner of The Sun and The Times, has a turnover of £200,000 and is GDC's largest client, taking the company from small to medium. Armstrong has a 100% retention rate of her sites and they achieve an average gross profit of 50%, a 20% improvement in one year.
As a Springboard ambassador she has introduced 10 employees into GDC and trained five interns. She also set up the company's Genuine Grad Scheme to provide a career pathway into hospitality.
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