So, what do you do all day?

Well, some days are more typical than others. Early in the week I am checking staff rotas and dealing with operational issues. My mornings generally consist of making phone calls and reading emails from suppliers etc, then I will spend the lunch period in one of the restaurants overseeing the service. The remainder of the day I’ll float between the restaurants, making sure things are running smoothly.

What’s an average week like for you?

Looking at menu changes and updates and tasting new dishes that are being considered for menu inclusion; liaising with the marketing team regarding future promotional activity and marketing materials; regular meetings with the Group General manager, head sommelier and executive chef’s; and discussing targets and gross profits with the individual restaurant managers and chefs. I also liaise closely with the suppliers to negotiate the right purchasing terms and ensure we are getting the right service and support. Occasionally I am invited to Italy by suppliers to do some wine tasting; sadly, this is not a weekly occurrence though!

What do you love most about your job?

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a very satisfied customer leaving your restaurant. Oh, and the wine tasting of course.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Working with modern day chefs! And, meeting the demands of the modern day customer!

When you started out in this business 28 years ago, how were things different?

Italian restaurants were a more traditional family run 'trattoria'. Nowadays, they tend to be more company run establishments. You create your menus around trends and demands, rather than what the chef thinks you should be eating! It’s more about healthy eating these days instead of a good hearty home-style cooking.

What do you do when you’re not working?

I’m a family man, so obviously they are very important to me. In fact, having four children is often more challenging than a week at work! I like to walk my dogs, take my sons to football practice and when I can, I visit my daughter in Brighton where she’s studying at university.