Career as Chef

Asked by: Guest - 12 May 16

I am a good cook and have completed my Bachelor in Hotel Management and Catering Technology in 2015. Do I need any more certifications or does my qualification open career opportunities for me as a chef? Does a post graduate degree add any value to the resume in this field?

Our expert said - 12 May 16

Bachelor in Hotel Management or Bachelor in Food technology along with actual cooking skills is good enough to start career as an intern in some good reputed food chains or restaurants. If interested, the candidate can go ahead with MBA in Hotel Management or Masters in Hospitality Management. But having a post graduation does not define a good chef. Hotel industry looks for right skill set and operational experience in relevant field to hire people. It is doubtful whether the additional degree would add any value to the career.

Some of the main skills that the hotel industry searches in a good chef are: developing original recipes, designing menus, managing kitchen supplies and accounts etc. Strong interpersonal and leadership skills gives the talented individuals a good spark to move ahead. Managing and motivating the kitchen staff to work efficiently thereby maintaining quality is what is expected from a good chef.

Career as a chef has good prospects. They can look for profiles like:

- Executive Chef
- Posts in Food and Service Management
- Chefs can work as freelancers
- Work as consultants to restaurants and kitchen equipment agencies
- Set-up an online food website
- Always open their own eating outlet.