Written on 05-Sep-2019
Congratulations to CJUK Chef, Wayne, who has been recognised as our Chef of the Month for his work in August 2019!
A few words from the team:
“I’d like to nominate Wayne as August’s Chef of the Month, he has gone above and beyond for us this past month and has had amazing feedback from all of the jobs he’s been on.”
How long have you worked in the industry?
I have worked in the catering industry since the age of 16, so 20 years! Although I did take a few stints out to pursue other jobs, catering has always been something I have been pulled back into.
How did you get into hospitality?
I took a commis chef job in a local restaurant, it was just for weekends while I was still in school but my career started from there…
What is your favourite thing about working in this industry?
I have a few favourite things about working in kitchens. Of course the friends that I have met over the years is one, the pressure of a well-organised service, sourcing local seasonal ingredients and challenging myself to produce something special on the plate. Also, it’s great working in an environment where political correctness doesn’t exist with foul mouth godless heathens.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity or well known person?
I have worked for many “celebrities”, from musicians, film stars, TV personalities and sportsmen over the years. These include the England football and rugby team, Samuel L. Jackson, Katy Perry, Michael Johnson, Rod Stewart, Alex Ferguson, Ariana Grande (the list goes on). The people I was most nervous about cooking for was the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, everything was scrutinised before leaving the kitchen and the pressure was immense!
What is the best job you have ever had?
The most fulfilling job I have ever taken was a development chef, training young chefs. They were young offenders and had social issues, troubled pasts and came from broken homes. It was amazing to see them grow as people and thrive in a kitchen environment to become excellent, capable, chefs.
I enjoy my role as a temporary chef as it gives me the flexibility to have time with friends and family on special occasions and holidays. I also have consultancy contracts so it’s the perfect job to grow and pursue other projects while still making money.
What three words sum up why you work for CJUK?
CJUK have been great if I had to describe them in 3 words it would have to be:
If you would like to find out more about joining the CJUK Brigade, please call us on 01254 355666 or complete the form below and we’ll be in touch!
Written on 04-Sep-2018
Congratulations to our dedicated CJUK Chef, Gerry, who has been recognised as our 'Chef of the Month' for August 2018! We asked him a few questions about his some of his experiences whilst being
Written on 08-May-2018
We would like to say a huge congratulations to CJUK Chef, Gary, who was recognised as our April 'Chef of the Month'! We recently caught up with him for a quick Q & A... How long have you
Written on 03-May-2019
Congratulations to our interim Chef, Joanne, who has been awarded our ‘Chef of the Month’ for April 2019! A few words from the team: “Joanne has always had such a professional presence when
