Hospitality is one of those places, jobs, industries, whatever you want to call it that just captures you. Many don’t go in with a clear plan. Some people have a natural ability that shines in their first jobs, others find themselves and grow into their early roles as they gain confidence. One thing we all have is a can do, work hard attitude that can be spotted a mile off.
In my first shifts working behind the bar in my local pub and late-night bar, I was useless! I was one of the latter who had to grow into the job, but I knew straight away I wanted to work in hospitality. I didn’t want a desk, I didn’t want a monotonous job and I definitely wanted to be around other people, in a team! It didn’t always go to plan, I dropped plates, took wrong orders and in my first management roles cocked up plenty of rotas and cash sheets but I progressed because I was willing and hard working.
No other sector I know offers such great career progression and even the ability to start your own business like hospitality. I’m pretty old now, too old to admit on here but I started my first job at 16, was a manager by 20 and started my own business at 24 years old. Years down the line I’m sitting here in one of my venues still loving coming to work every day surrounded by great people.
Anthony Pender is the owner of The Yummy Collection, running the Somers Town Coffee House in Euston and The Victoria in Mile End. He also owns and runs Faber, a wine and seafood restaurant in Hammersmith. He was also the Chair of the BII from 2014 to 2018, helping shape the membership organisation to inspire, develop and support operators across the UK.
