INDUSTRY ROLE MODEL CASE STUDY – SUE HEYES, GENERAL MANAGER, ARAMARK Introduction This case study consists of a personal profile of Sue Heyes, a General Manager with ARAMARK. It is based on a questionnaire interview. Many thanks to Sue and to ARAMARK for providing this information.
Background ARAMARK Limited is an award-winning food service management company. It is a food service partner to organisations across a range of sectors including: • • • • •
business and industry defence education healthcare offshore
There are over 12,500 employees in the UK offering a vast range of services to ARAMARK’s customers. ARAMARK offers management, supervisory and employee opportunities at locations throughout the UK. Interview Name: Job Title: Location:
Sue Heyes General Manager HO of a leading supermarket chain, Bristol
1. Why were you attracted into the industry? I developed a love of cooking from spending hours in the kitchen with my Grandmother who used to make everything from scratch, so I was first attracted to that side of things. I worked as a waitress from the age of 14 and found I really enjoyed the front of house aspect as well, so decided that a career in catering management would combine the two. 2. What was your first job in the industry? As a waitress in a local pub; as well as serving the food I got to help prepare the starters and dress the puddings. I worked my way through college doing all manner of catering jobs: pot wash, bar person, cocktail bar person, waitress, cook.
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3. What educational qualifications do you have and/or training at work? How have these helped in your career? I have an OND in Hotel Catering and Institutional Operations and an HND in Hotel Catering Management. I have the Advanced Food Hygiene diploma and am a Qualified NVQ assessor. I have taken all training offered by all my employers and believe that this helps me to stay up-to-date with current thinking and expands my knowledge. I have the full range of training qualifications, which allows me to pass on training effectively to my staff. 4. Did you have a mentor who encouraged you during the early stages of your career? If so, who and why were they inspirational? I had a great manager who was willing to pass on his knowledge and to teach me his skills. He was patient and supportive and taught me the importance of building a team. 5. What do you regard as being your biggest achievement to date? I have achieved many things during my career but my biggest achievement in this job role has been to help secure a group contract for ARAMARK. We now have all the catering for my client, not just the head office, which I run. 6. What industry ambitions would you still like to achieve? I would like to progress within ARAMARK and to take on either a more senior role or specialise in a role that makes a difference. 7. What gives you a buzz about your job? I love working with people and enjoy the challenges that this brings. Every day is different. 8. Why would you recommend the industry to potential recruits? Working in the catering industry can be very rewarding and, if you are a ‘foodie’ or enjoy working in a team to achieve things, then this is the career for you. I have worked in the Industry for over 25 years and still get a buzz out of what I do. 9. What are your top 3 tips to people entering the industry? • Do what you enjoy and are good at • There is no ‘I’ in team – invest time and effort with your team and you will all reap the rewards • Take every opportunity to train and improve your knowledge and skills For further information about ARAMARK and details of job opportunities please visit: www.aramark.co.uk
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