International Women’s Day Spotlight | Regional Food Services Warrant Officer Princess Mutea-McCulloch

On International Women’s Day, we are delighted to officially celebrate the women who work tirelessly and passionately across the global hospitality industry and this year we are shining a special light on just one of those incredible international women who has recently joined the Institute; Regional Food Services Warrant Officer Princess Mutea-McCulloch MSc (EH) MCIEH who works in the British Army.

As a woman working in the British Army as a Regional Food Services Warrant Officer, what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It inspires and empowers women to succeed in any job, particularly in male-dominated areas like the forces. It also reminds us of our progress towards gender equality and our continued fight to give women equal chances in the forces and beyond.

 Tell us a little more about yourself and your career to date and why you decided to follow a career in food services in the army.

Originally from Kenya, my goal of becoming a professional chef started when I was 15, and I developed a passion for cooking. After relocating to the UK at 18 years old to attend catering college in Lewisham, my sister introduced me to an appealing opportunity: enlisting in the Army, allowing me to travel the world and refine my culinary abilities.

Commencing this journey as an Army junior chef established in me a passionate goal to provide guidance and mentorship to my colleagues. This ambition motivated me to obtain Training, Assessing, and Quality Assurance (TAQA) credentials, which allowed me to assist junior members with their NVQ objectives. Following my promotion to sergeant, I developed a newfound love for education and was assigned as an instructor at the Food Services Training Wing (FSTW). Under the teaching skills and qualifications, I obtained Nutrition (Level 4) and Business & Technology Education Council (BTEC) Level 5. That allowed me to be capable of instructing and assessing both the Army and RAF chefs.

Additionally, with a strong desire to promote further development among our service personnel, I happily accepted the opportunity to act as an Independent End Point Assessor (IEPA) for Army apprentices. In this capacity, I could assess and improve the competencies of production chef class 3 and senior production chef, thereby equipping them with the necessary skills to take on managerial roles within our distinguished culinary and Army culture.

As the Army’s Regional Food Services Warrant Officer for the South East of England, I am currently trusted to provide guidance and support to senior and junior team members. Through sharing my knowledge, experience, skills, and behaviour, I intend to foster an environment characterised by distinction and a purpose to mould future leaders.

Do you feel that the hospitality industry has changed for the better as far as women’s equality is concerned?

Absolutely! The hospitality industry has made significant strides towards achieving greater equality for women. Over the years, noticeable shift has been towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse environment where women are valued for their skills, expertise, and leadership abilities.

What advice would you give to young women starting in our industry?

As a mother of a young baby girl and a role model for our chef trade, my advice to young women starting in the field is twofold:

• First, trust in yourself and your ability completely. You are capable of greatness despite imagined obstacles or limitations
• Second, always appreciate and never underestimate the value of determination and ongoing learning.

The hospitality world is continuously changing, so there is always something new to learn. Embrace every chance to broaden your talents, seek mentoring from those who have gone before you, and never hesitate to establish your culinary personality.

Above all, remember that your voice, talent, and enthusiasm can influence the future. So, walk forward with confidence, knowing that you are not only following in the footsteps of those who came before you, but also paving the way for future generations.

Why say ‘I’m in’- #imin, to the Institute of Hospitality?

The Institute offers education, networking, and professional development opportunities to help you participate and contribute effectively to the hospitality community and the Army.

During your time in hospitality, what is the most wonderful experience you’ve had? 

In addition to the credentials and privileges I’ve received, the most rewarding element of my hospitality career has been witnessing junior team members grow and succeed. It gives me great satisfaction and joy to see them succeed professionally and personally, knowing I had a role in their growth and success. Furthermore, the mutual respect and sense of belonging within the hospitality industry has enhanced my experience, resulting in long-lasting friendships and professional relationships I greatly value. These moments of shared accomplishment and mutual support emphasise the genuine nature of hospitality and motivate me to keep making a big difference in the lives of others.

To all the girls and women across the world, Happy International Women’s Day.