Kitchen manager Review

by Whitbread

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am a full time chef whilst also managing the kitchen and back of house team, creating work schedules, count and order stock, train and coach new and existing staff, repair and place call outs for damaged equipment and ensure the whole team is working safely and efficiently.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Yes, I am new to role, this apprenticeship has thought me many new management techniques and coaching styles.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

It’s hard work and very time consuming during a period of my work life when I don’t have a spare second. However it has been very beneficial if not a little repetitive in some of the questions.

7/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

There was some turbulence at the beginning of my apprenticeship where I was bounced around to different coaches causing me to get behind, since I have been with my current coach I can not fault it.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

A lot! In my experience whitbread is very supportive in the apprenticeship scheme and my general manager is also very helpful. My only downside is I do not get enough time to complete my apprenticeship during my work day.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

A lot, was very behind due to various circonstances and my coach came for a site visit and helped me catch up on 100 hours of work. I know I can also message or call him if I need help.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Moderately well, I am only about half way through, but have leant some good theories and techniques.

6/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There used to be lots when I first started working for the company seven years ago, due to the current economic situation and recent pandemic there are less.

5/10

9a. Would you recommend Whitbread to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Very good benefits and reward schemes, good career progression opportunities and the apprenticeship scheme.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Whitbread?

Take all the opportunities offered, I.e. the apprenticeship, working across multiple sites, training courses and business meetings to expand your network.