Women in Food Interview: Lisa Morris

As part of Compass Group, the largest contract foodservice company in the world, The Venues Collection are proud to champion and celebrate all women in the food industry and to change the culture toward gender equality by empowering women and shining a spotlight on the incredible work that women are doing in the industry.

In this latest blog, we speak to Lisa Morris to find out more about her and why she is a ‘Woman in Food Ambassador’ for The Venues Collection.

Name: Lisa Morris

Job Title: Revenue Director

Why are you an ambassador for Women in Food?

I was asked to be a Women in Food ambassador and I immediately said yes because it’s a fantastic opportunity within the senior management team to represent women in the food industry! As an ambassador I have already attended some great events to support & celebrate women in this industry, such as attending the International Women’s Day event at the Imperial War Museum for Women in Food.

What is your relation to food in your job role?

Although my job role focuses on revenue for the collection, food plays a huge factor! I work closely with our Executive Chef, Sam Morgan, to create packages for events & market segments such as Weddings to ensure that our pricing is not only competitive but also profitable. The economic climate is affecting the cost of food, so my job involves ensuring our prices across all segments evolves, drives revenue & profitability.

How did your career start at your venue/The Venues Collection? 

I joined The Venues Collection six weeks before we went into lockdown in 2020.  The reason I joined The Venues Collection was because we were at the beginning of a revenue management journey. The brand was known for Meeting & Events, so I joined to maximise opportunities in other revenue streams.

What is your favourite part of your job?

I enjoy working with the teams in each venue and influencing strategies. My job is results driven, so I love seeing a difference we can all make to the brand.

What do you know now that you wish you could have told your younger self when you were starting out? 

I would tell my younger self to have more self-belief in my abilities. When you are young, you may be worried to put forward your ideas or put your hand up, but there are no bad ideas. I would also say, find a mentor that is willing to support and invest in you for your personal development and journey

What gets you up in the morning?

I am doing a job that I enjoy and like making a difference & being part of a great team which makes me motivated to get up in the morning. I recommend being in a job you enjoy because even though day to day can look similar, it is great to look back over time & see what has been achieved as a team.

Who is someone that inspires you and why?

I have been fortunate to have lots of people inspire me, both professionally and outside of work. For example, my first General Manager gave me the opportunity to move into the revenue department and took a chance on me which really influenced my career!

What is your favourite food?

I am a huge lover of food, so I enjoy many different types of food such as Mexican, Indian, Greek, Mediterranean food, or a roast dinner!

What is your favourite beverage?

I love a gin & tonic, but equally, I enjoy a mojito!

What is your favourite thing on The Venues Collection menu?

The Katsu curry.

What one piece of advice would you give to a woman just starting out in the hospitality industry?

My advice would be to ensure you are passionate about the line of work you are entering, and you should love your job because a large proportion of your life will revolve around working. Secondly, don’t be scared to take risks along the way, and most importantly have fun!

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