The best of both worlds. I cook amazing food and can still put the kids to bed.

When I started out in hospitality (or catering as we called it then), Contract Catering was a tough sell. The perception was stuffy. It was where THF went when hotels upped their game. It was where the Berni Inn brigade went when TGI Fridays stormed the casual dining sector.

But things change, and the perception of contract catering has changed with it. Today, some of the biggest names in hospitality are in contract catering: Jamie Oliver (at Cornwall’s Eden Project), Raymond Blanc (at Oxford University) and Peter Gordon (with his own contract catering company) to name a few.

So, what is it about Contract Catering that appeals? It’s not just the big names. All over the country people are opting for career in contract catering and here’s why:

Flexibility – Most people in contract catering work Monday to Friday with weekends off so being home to spend more time with your family is a real benefit. I missed a lot of my kid’s early years, but working in a contract would have completely changed that. Even with some evening and weekend events, the regular working schedule is much more family friendly.

Variety – Every day is different, and chefs cook for a variety of people: from employees to VIPs on a daily basis.

Top quality food. With people heading back to the workplace post-covid, some of the biggest businesses are investing heavily in their in-house catering offer. The menu development work is now right at the cutting edge of culinary art. The expectations of standards is higher than it’s ever been, and you won’t get bored.

Career Progression – Contract caterers are now really competitive, salary wise. They pay well, and most are committed to promoting from within. Careers can be built, and now is an excellent time to consider a move.

The Bottom Line – Contract Catering is now a great option if you’re looking at your next career move. You can achieve the best of all worlds. The opportunity to create amazing food, make a decent living, stretch your professional abilities and still get home to put the kids to bed.

If you’re interested in exploring opportunities or just want to hear a little more, drop me a quick line here and we’ll arrange a chat.