"Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don't have."

Reflecting on my time in hospitality, one person stands out as the ultimate mentor and madman: Calum. He was a force of nature, a culinary genius, and a downright amazing head chef. And I loved every minute of working for him.

Calum had worked at the Savoy in London and high-end private members clubs in Aberdeen during the oil boom and had finished his last service owning the original Two Fat Ladies restaurant in Glasgow. 
Calum was the kind of chef who would demand perfection from his team but also inspire us to achieve it. He would push us to our physical and mental limits and only settle for the best. And in doing so, he taught us to be better chefs and people.
I'll never forget the long nights in the kitchen, the frenzied rush to get dishes out on time, and the constant barrage of orders coming in. It was chaos, but it was also thrilling. And through it all, Calum would be there, shouting orders (in French), pushing us to move faster, and making us laugh with his irreverent sense of dark humour.

Looking back on those days, I realise that working for Calum was one of the most formative experiences of my career. He taught me to embrace the chaos of the kitchen, never to lose my sense of humour, and always strive for excellence. And even now, years later, I still hear his voice in my head, pushing me to improve and reminding me of the passion and dedication it takes to succeed in this industry.
I have gone on in my career always looking to work with true leaders, mentors and passionate individuals, there have been some true ones out there, and I salute all of them with my thanks and gratitude. 
My last mentor left me with this comment which changed the way I look at working with leaders in the future.
He told me a simple truth “When I did not know, you taught me. When I did know, you followed me.” And to him, I thank you.

So if you're just starting out in hospitality or have been in for a long time, my advice is to find your own Calum. Surround yourself with people passionate about hospitality, who demand excellence, and who will push you to be your best. And when you find that mentor who drives you to your limits, embraces the craziness, learn everything you can, and never forget to enjoy the ride.

Things will get broken. Things get lost. But don’t miss them for the world.

Always remember the words of the great Anthony Bourdain.
"Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don't have."