Pete is currently the Catering Manager for Tops Day Nurseries and has been working in the catering industry for 18 years.
As a Catering Manager, it is Pete’s job to oversee the catering operations at Tops whilst developing menus and recipes, offering support to the catering team, managing budgets, and working closely with suppliers to ensure the freshest and best quality produce is available to Tops nurseries.
Pete’s journey within the industry started by studying for a work-based diploma at Bournemouth and Poole College. At the age of 16 his Diploma led him to Boodles London. Boodles is a private gentleman’s club in the heart of Green Park with a very prestigious history, serving classical food using the best produce from around the UK. The final stop of the work-based diploma was the Chewton Glen, a 5 red star Relais chateaux hotel which held a Michelin star for its restaurant and food. Pete described the experience he gained at the Chewton Glen as being ‘invaluable’. Whilst at the Chewton Glen Pete was awarded ‘The Student of The Year’ Award at Bournemouth and Poole College.
Pete further honed his skills at the Harbour Heights and Captains Club Hotel. He then moved onto his first senior role within the kitchen taking his first steps into management. After taking on his first head chef’s position he achieved two AA rosettes within the first 6 months whilst becoming the youngest chef in Dorset to achieve the award.
During Pete’s career in the industry, he has also led kitchens for Lamborghini, Cartier and Rolex.
The qualifications and awards Pete has received include:
- Diploma in Professional Cookery
- Student of The Year Award
- Diploma in The Lifelong Teaching Sector
- Two AA Rosettes
- Dorset Chef of The Year Finalist
- Goodwood Legend Award
Pete made the decision to leave the stove and kitchen after 18 years within the industry to gain a better work-life balance. When the opportunity came up to work within Tops nurseries he was delighted as he was able to give something back with the knowledge he had gained in the industry.
Pete said, ‘The children at Tops Nurseries are our future, so to be able to give them the best possible food that is fresh, nutritional and tasty is what made me so excited to be working within the tops team. Educating children on food is so important, providing them with a life skill that will serve them right throughout their lives’.
When asked ‘What do you love the most about your job?’ Pete answered, ‘Seeing my team develop is something that is great. Inspiring people and motivating them and their passion for food. And of course making sure the children at tops have meals created with the freshest produce that is also nutritionally well balanced, whole and tasty’.
We can’t wait to see what healthy recipes and menus you bring to Tops Day Nurseries Pete – Welcome to the team!
