'End the macho culture in kitchens' says chef Michael Caines

Michael Caines, one of Britain's most accomplished Michelin-starred chefs, has called on employers in the hospitality industry to stamp out the macho culture that inhibits some kitchens and to take proactive steps to encourage more females to progress their careers as chefs.

Caines was speaking at the launch of the Women 1st Female Chefs' Development programme held at The Dorchester, London on August 12th.

"Some of the discriminatory practices that hinder the progress of female chefs don't belong in the 21st century workplace and should not be tolerated." Michael Caines stated at the event.

"Chefs are one of the hardest positions to fill and the industry needs to secure the best talent rather than shun part of the workforce. Furthermore, today's chefs need to have more than just good cooking skills, they need to be able to manage and motivate kitchen staff, supervise the gross profit levels and crucially, be business savvy. It is therefore crucial for employers to provide the right training for their female chefs to help take their careers to the next level."

The event saw Caines advocate the launch of the Female Chefs' Development Programme, founded by sector skills council People 1st, which is designed to deliver bespoke chef training and help bridge the management and personal skills gap that can exist amongst female chefs.

Research from People 1st, found that over 60% of chefs are male, a percentage that significantly increased within fine dining restaurants. The research found that unconventional working hours, coupled with a lack of training and suitable role models, have hampered the progress of female chefs.

Michael Caines was awarded the AA Chef's Chef of the Year in 2007 and honoured with an MBE in 2006 for services to the hospitality industry. In 1994 Michael was appointed head chef at Gidleigh Park, Devon. He is currently an operational partner and director of ABode Hotels and is in charge of all food and beverage operations throughout the group.

Words: Clare Riley

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