Tell us a little more about yourself and your career to date.
I joined Springboard as CEO in August 2020, where I lead the charity in its mission to support individuals in finding careers in hospitality. Before Springboard, I spent over 15 years in print and digital communications, working across various sectors, including fashion, restaurants, and retail. Most recently, I was the editor of The Caterer, where I oversaw the magazine, website and events like the Cateys. It was during my time there that I first became actively involved with Springboard, fundraising at events and raising awareness of the incredible work we do.
Can you tell us more about Springboard, and the valuable work that you do?
Springboard has been dedicated to helping unemployed individuals from all backgrounds gain the skills and confidence they need to start meaningful careers in hospitality for over 30 years. Our mission is to ensure a strong talent pipeline for the industry, promoting hospitality as an exceptional career choice across the UK.
Last year, we reached over 45,000 students through our initiatives in schools and colleges, offering programs like the Springboard FutureChef competition, hospitality takeover days, and summer training courses. Our employability training programs are transformative in giving people the skills and opportunities to secure meaningful work.
Across all our activity, last year Springboard helped over 5,100 unemployed individuals find jobs in hospitality.
One graduate, Rahab, shared her experience: “My favourite part, aside from the practical days, was visiting The Hilton on Park Lane. The team was so welcoming. At graduation, I was recognized as a ‘rising star,’ which was both thrilling and a bit embarrassing. Just weeks later, I had a follow-up interview with Hilton and was offered a job. I’m working there now and absolutely love it.”
We’re fortunate to have a network of over 2,000 Ambassadors who advocate for our work, mentor trainees, and support our fundraising efforts. Anyone with a passion for the industry and helping others is welcome to join as a Springboard Ambassador.
Right now, we’re running our Christmas campaign, selling online raffle tickets for a chance to win one of five fantastic prizes, and we’re inviting our supporters to make year-end donations to help us continue our work. Learn more here.
What does being an Institute of Hospitality Fellow mean to you?
Becoming an Institute of Hospitality Fellow is truly an honour. It’s wonderful to have my expertise and passion for the industry recognised in this way. The Institute is well known for its commitment to supporting hospitality and its mission aligns perfectly with Springboard’s values.
I’m excited about the opportunity to network with fellow professionals and share insights about the industry. I believe in collaborative efforts and am always looking for innovative ways to support and advance our sector and the people within it.
What is the most wonderful thing to happen in your career?
One of the highlights of my career was when Springboard received the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Volunteering Award last year. This recognition for our work supporting young, unemployed and underprivileged people across the UK was incredibly rewarding.
And what about the worst?
Like many aspects of life, some of the toughest moments can lead to unexpected opportunities. The pandemic affected us all, shaking up our normal way of life and having a profound impact on the hospitality industry. As someone who thrives on social interaction, I felt that void deeply.
But during that challenging time, the opportunity to apply for the CEO position at Springboard came up, and I was eager to take on the challenge. I joined at a time when the industry was still grappling with significant restrictions, but thanks to the determination and hard work of my team, we launched the Springboard to 2022 initiative and helped over 10,000 unemployed individuals find jobs. Despite the difficulties, we’re incredibly proud to have supported the industry through one of its toughest periods.
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