Nicky Leach

I’m a lecturer in Hospitality Management, Food and Beverage Service, and Culinary Arts Management here at UCB. I started my own professional journey as a UCB student, and that experience motivated me to return and share the expertise I’ve developed in my career since.

I spent 14 years as a Restaurant Manager in a large hotel, several years as a Bars Manager and then as a Food and Beverage Manager overseeing events for up to 500 guests (mostly weddings). I’ve also had the unique experience of managing executive boxes at West Bromwich Albion Football Club. These roles have given me hands-on experience in leadership, human resource management, and the practical realities of running busy hospitality operations.

For the last 24 years, I’ve been a lecturer in Hospitality and Food and Beverage Service, supporting students as they embark on their own careers. I’m a QTLS (Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills) Member of SET (Society for Education and Training), which demonstrates my commitment to maintaining high professional standards and to keeping my own knowledge up-to-date.

As a former UCB student myself, I understand first-hand the challenges and opportunities students face. I therefore design my classes to be engaging and supportive, especially in practical sessions where I make sure that every student gets all the help they need.

I’ve always had an open-door policy, and I offer individual mentoring for students who feel overwhelmed, whether by personal or academic challenges. Watching my students excel in the industry after graduation is truly one of the greatest joys of my career to date. I’ve nurtured students through further and higher education and stayed in touch with them as they’ve progressed in their catering careers.

If I had to give one piece of advice to new students at UCB, it would be to apply yourself, attend every session, and make the most out of your experience here. Your future is 100% what you make of it.