Just Hired! – Q&A with Kenya McKnight

To spice things up, this month’s “Just Promoted” blog got renamed to “Just Hired” and is devoted to all the new joiners in the hospitality industry. We introduce Kenya McKnight who recently joined the Ettington Chase team and whose Q&A will certainly boost your mood, inspire and encourage you to overcome those work challenges.

When did you join the company?

I joined the company this April and I am still so excited.

Tell us more about your new role? What does a typical day look like for you?

My new role as F&B Assistant manager with Conference is quite amazing. I’ve been learning something new every day and I love it! At times it can be very challenging but I have the best team, EVER. A typical day includes managing the restaurant for breakfast & lunch or I’ll come in to do an evening dinner shift. Some days I’ll be in to do dinners for weddings, parties or residential trips. It’s been a great experience so far and I always have a smile on my face.

What kept you motivated throughout your career?

Knowing that there’s always rooms for promotion and being able to train new staff. I want this industry to grow and grow! I’m very passionate.

Can you please share with us what about your biggest professional challenge you have encountered?

My biggest professional challenged is ensuring that I work for the best companies. So, finding a job was always a struggle as I only apply for the best and Compass Group UK & Ireland is definitely one of them!

What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional?

I’m a member at one of the UK’s best transformation gyms and the owner of the gym knows how passionate I am about the hospitality industry, so I was given me the opportunity to open up my own café in the gym… It’s called Bean Pit, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. Never let these amazing opportunities go to waste.

What is your favourite thing about your job now?

I love the energy of the team, the passion and the respect for all the different roles. I love that I work in the middle of nowhere! It is a BIG breath of fresh air.

What is your motto or personal mantra?

My motto is, “it’s gonna be a good one” positivity is key!

If you could change one thing about working here, what would it be?

I would have housekeepers on during the evening. Sometimes things in the rooms aren’t perfectly how the customers want it.

What advice would you give to recent new joiners?

DO NOT WORRY! I promise. It’s a whole new world and it’s so much fun!

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