Pathways: Elizabeth Forkuoh, assistant restaurant manager at Gleneagles, on how competitions have shaped who she is

The assistant restaurant manager at Gleneagles in Auchterarder, Perthshire, speaks to Lisa Jenkins about how she got started in her career and how competitions have shaped who she is.

 

Did you study a hospitality-related course at college or university?

 

Yes, I did a VRQ Diploma Level 1 and 2 in professional cookery and food and beverage service, and an NVQ Diploma Level 3 in hospitality supervision and leadership.

 

Did you do an apprenticeship in hospitality?

 

Yes, I did an advanced apprenticeship while completing the NVQ Diploma and working at the Stradey Park hotel in Llanelli. My first job was as a part-time waitress there.

 

What initially attracted you to working in hospitality?

 

Simply my love for food – I absolutely love food. From a young age, I always thought that I would become a chef until I discovered my love and passion for customer service.

 

Who was your first mentor or role model in hospitality?

 

Chris Tappin. He was my first manager and mentor, someone I really looked up to then and still do now. He provided me with the guidance, support and feedback I needed to thrive in my career.

 

How did you decide on your career? Were there any influences, influencers or experiences that encouraged you?

 

The main experience that encouraged me to take the route I did was participating in the WorldSkills competition. Linda Thomas, my personal tutor at college, encouraged me to take part and to expose my skills in competitions.

 

What industry networks have you been part of that have supported you in your career progression?

 

Inspiring Skills of Excellence in Wales, WorldSkills UK, the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts and the Gold Service Scholarship.

 

Have you embarked on any additional personal career development?

 

I passed the Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 2. I competed at WorldSkills Abu Dhabi in 2017 and represented the UK in restaurant service. I was a winner at the Annual Awards of Excellence in 2018 and I was also crowned the winner of the Gold Service Scholarship 2020.

 

All of these experiences and awards have truly helped me shape the person I am today.

 

What are the biggest challenges you have faced while working in hospitality?

 

One of the biggest challenges in the past was trying to have a work-life balance due to the long, odd working hours. Thankfully, this is no longer a challenge.

 

Do you have any regrets or things you wish you'd done differently?

 

I wish I had started working at Gleneagles sooner. Gleneagles has changed my personal and professional life in so many ways.

 

What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?

 

The hospitality industry is tough, but it’s also unique. Be prepared to work hard and absorb as much as you can, because you will never stop learning.

 

Be prepared to work hard and absorb as much as you can, because you will never stop learning

 

What are your future career goals?

 

My future career goals are to broaden my professional knowledge, continue my personal development, travel and gain new experiences.

 

Would you recommend a career in hospitality to your friends and family?

 

Yes, I definitely would. The hospitality industry allows you to develop professionally and as a person. Not only do you improve on the professional skills you already possess, but with time and commitment you learn other skills, due to the variety of colleagues, guests and situations that will put you to the test.

 

CV

• January 2020-present Assistant restaurant manager, Gleneagles, Auchterarder, Perthshire
• May 2019-December 2019 Junior assistant manager, Gleneagles
• April 2018-April 2019 Head waitress, Gleneagles
• July 2017-March 2018 Chef de rang, Gleneagles
• July 2012-June 2017 Waitress, Stradey Park hotel, Llanelli