Signature Group, which operates 21 bars, restaurants and hotels, has launched its Junior Chef Development Programme to tackle the ongoing staffing issues and skill shortages within the industry.
The 12-week bespoke training course is designed to impart the key skills required for chefs in the early stages of their careers.
Both practical and theoretical learning will be applied, with chefs covering topics inside and outside of their kitchens, from systems to dish creation and costings, to food and supplier knowledge – including supplier visits – as well as pizza and pastry making skills.
Over the course of the 12 weeks, they will be trained by Graeme Windsor, Development Chef with Signature Group and Lauren Napier, Training Manager, as well as guest speakers from within and outside of the group to help run classes.
Passionate about investing in people and helping to develop future leaders, Signature hopes the programme will not only help to positively enhance the skills of its cohort of chefs but will also attract new talent to the group over time.
Louise Maclean, Business Development Director, of Signature Group said: “It is, unfortunately, a common problem across the hospitality industry now that for a number of reasons, there is a real shortage of chef talent.
“We’re very proud to announce the launch of our new development programme which we hope will go some way in nurturing the individuals we are already lucky to have in our company.
“Plus, having our own comprehensive training course which will allow chefs the chance to really hone their skills in a supportive and friendly environment will help us to stand out in the industry – so that we can also attract new talent in the future.
“We are looking for chefs of all levels from the central belt all the way to Aberdeen, and we’d urge those looking to take the next steps in their careers to strongly consider doing so with Signature.”
Headquartered in Edinburgh, Signature Group’s portfolio includes Edinburgh’s Cold Town House, The Meadowpark in Stirling, Glasgow’s Smokin’ Fox, and The Spiritualist Aberdeen.