May 2016

Sam gets promotion at world-famous Gleneagles Hotel

Read time: approx 1 mins

Twenty-one-year-old Sam Berry is flying the flag for UCB over the border in Scotland, after wowing his bosses at the luxury, five-star Gleneagles Hotel.

Sam, who studied Food and Beverage Supervision at the College of Food, has been promoted to chef de range, just 12 months after joining Gleneagles as commis waiter.

He works at The Strathearn, the Hotel’s grand dining room, which has been at the heart of Gleneagles’ hospitality since 1924. “I love it; it’s the best thing in the world. I’ve learnt so much, not least how to work as part of a huge team,” he said.  

The 21-year-old from Solihull is following in the footsteps of his grandparents, who ran restaurants in the south of England before retirement.

Sam recalled: “I remember going down to visit them in the summer holidays as a teenager and clearing plates and tables. They always said they’d like to see me working in the industry.”

Sam’s advice for current UCB students is to work hard. He said: “Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Show your bosses that you are the person you want to be.”  

Christine Alberto, Food and Beverage Service lecturer, said: “I am so proud of Sam. He started as a very shy young man, but quickly progressed and gained confidence. He has been a fun and dedicated student to teach, and he is already doing well. His career is only beginning. He makes me very proud of our food service and hospitality students.”  

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