A previous managing director of Wahaca, Jo Fleet (2010-2017) had a good influence on me when I started working in November 2014, and when we had brief chats, she used to emphasize it is the people who work for a company great
Hiring and retaining great people. Communicating with them so everyone knows what is expected of them. Train and develop people and promote from within. Create an environment where everyone feels part of a team and create a culture where people actually want to come to work and have fun. Keep questioning how we can improve. Focus on quality openings rather than quantity and, above all else, make sure as you grow you are still as good as your first restaurant.
What do you see as key trends for the casual dining sector in the coming year?
Customers wanting value for money. Loyalty from customers not through discounting but offering consistency, quality and, above all else, a great experience.
(This was an incomplete entry written in 20 September 2021 that I forgot to publish. Better late then never. Plus I still believe that if one looks after and looks out for their teammates and always gives their best, then life will note it accordingly and smile back at ya!
Morgan Freeman once said in an interview 'Your work is your word. If you show up and give less than everything, you've broken that word'.
I try to stick to my word.)
