Michael Caines launches Women 1st chef development programme

The programme will not only deliver chef training, but will also help to address the management and personal skills gap that can exist for women who are looking to progress their career within this sector. The scheme will cover issues such as communication, assertiveness and confidence under pressure in the kitchen, motivating and inspiring the team, menu engineering, and managing attendance and discipline. According to People 1st, the brainchild of the scheme, over 60% of chefs are male – a percentage that significantly increases within fine dining restaurants. Many respondents to the research agreed that women's progress is being hampered by a lack of mentors and female role models. Sharon Glancy, business solutions director at People 1st and champion of Women 1st said: "We feel privileged to have Michael Caines on board to help us launch this pioneering programme. "Our leadership development programme and mentoring network have already proved successful, supporting over 200 female managers in the sector with their career progression. We are hoping to replicate that success with female chefs so the industry can retain their valuable skills." Caines added: "This is a truly inspired initiative as the gender gap amongst chefs needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. This programme is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the importance of attracting women into the trade whilst helping those already in our sector to progress and take up more senior roles. Britain is due to host the Olympics in two years and the hospitality sector has a crucial role to play, therefore we cannot afford to lose talent." For those interested in joining the programme can contact Dan Power on dan.power@people1st.co.uk.