1.6. Professional Careers in the Food Service Industry
Working in the food service industry requires certain qualities. While the industry offers dynamic and rewarding opportunities, it requires individuals who are comfortable collaborating with others, thrive in fast-paced environments, and appreciate diversity in their work. Since various roles in the industry demand distinct skill sets, it is crucial for anyone aspiring to a career in either the front or back of the house to have self-awareness of their abilities and interests. This self-awareness enables them to seek out roles that align with their strengths and preferences (BC Cook Articulation Committee 2014).
Considering the diverse range of sectors within both commercial and non-commercial food service, students have a variety of career paths to explore. A common option post-graduation is stepping into a role as a restaurant manager or assistant manager in an independent establishment. Typically, entry-level roles are categorized as either front-of-house or back-of-house positions. Alternatively, individuals may opt for entry-level management positions within a hotel or resort, such as roles overseeing restaurant operations, bars, food and beverage services, or banquets. Over time, individuals may advance to roles like restaurant general manager or director of food and beverage in hotel or resort settings. Further progression might include roles as area or regional managers, eventually leading to executive positions within corporate offices. Recent graduates also have the option to explore opportunities in the non-commercial sectors of the industry, often starting with large managed service companies and advancing within those organizations. Some graduates may choose to venture into entrepreneurship within the restaurant sector, allowing them to develop and implement their own ideas and principles (Egan 2015).
People working in the industry often collaborate outside of their workplaces to drive the industry forward by joining and participating in local or national trade and professional associations, local food movements and events, and other activities that maintain a strong presence and voice in the community for the industry. By joining the food service industry, you should realize that your work is more than a job — some would describe it as a lifestyle — and being supportive of all the aspects of industry mentioned above will only enhance your experience (BC Cook Articulation Committee 2014).
The hospitality industry is also very connected through social media and other channels, and therefore as someone working in the trade, you are expected to be respectful of your peers, and when you are out on your own time, to treat your colleagues as you would like your customers to treat you (BC Cook Articulation Committee 2014).
