Daniel Evans

My students know me as Dan. I teach on our MA Culinary Arts Management course, bringing a wealth of real-world experience in hospitality business management, financial management, and leadership into the classroom. I’m also a proud professional Member of the Institute of Hospitality (MIH).

My industry journey began with Northcote Leisure Group as a Management Trainee, where I steadily progressed into general management roles. Over the years, I’ve worked across diverse hospitality sectors - everything from corporate hospitality, outside catering, fine dining, gastro pubs, to restaurants. This varied background allows me to bring relevant financial decision-making insights and practical management skills directly to my teaching, and I hope that this helps my students connect theory with real business challenges that they may face in the course of their careers. I encourage students to think critically about management principles and current sector challenges, and I aim to foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable debating and sharing their own ideas.

One key misconception I challenge with students is the idea that reducing costs is always the best route to profitability. In reality, cutting costs can yield short-term gains but often undermines sustainable business growth.

From the moment I joined UCB, I knew this was the place for me. It has a long-established reputation for excellence, and on a personal level, I take pride in supporting students in achieving their goals. Students often tell me that they appreciate hearing stories from my industry experiences and that they value our candid conversations.

My advice to students is to “absolutely smash it”, and by this I mean grab every opportunity at university with both hands! Never underestimate what you can achieve.