Welcome back to our “Career Champions” series, where we’ll be spotlighting a group of talented hospitality professionals from Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, sharing their personal journeys and insights into how they began and progressed within the industry.
In this edition, we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to speak with Hira Thackur, Executive Chef Director at the Ruddington Pub Company, who has held some incredibly exciting roles within the world of hospitality and continues to do so.
How did you first enter the industry? Can you share your professional journey?
“I am from a small Himalayan village in the far north of India, and this is where my love for food began, I started cooking with my mum from a very young age, learning how to blend and use spices, that’s why Asian flavours come so naturally to me.
When I arrived in the UK in 2013, I enrolled in Nottingham college and completed my Professional Chef Diploma. I also received their Student of the Year Award.
Since graduating from college I have worked at several restaurants across Nottingham, including Chino Latino, World Service, Restaurant Six, Clever and Wake and The Old Vol. I also took part in MasterChef: The Professionals in 2020”.
Could you describe your current role, including your day-to-day responsibilities?
“As the Executive Chef Director at The Reddington Pub Company, I oversee the operations of four establishments: The Old Vol, The Reindeer, and our two newest additions, Tom Browns and The Anchor, set to open this spring.
My day-to-day responsibilities include managing kitchen operations across all locations, leading and supporting our talented culinary teams, and curating innovative menus that reflect our commitment to quality and creativity”.
What aspects of your current role do you find the most rewarding?
“One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is witnessing the joy and satisfaction our food brings to customers. Hearing positive feedback and seeing people enjoy what we’ve created is incredibly rewarding.
What’s also equally important to me is the opportunity to share my knowledge and skills to inspire the next generation of chefs. Training and mentoring emerging talent, helping them grow in their craft, and watching their confidence and skills develop is a source of great pride”.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to join the industry?
“You need to be passionate about food and service. Understanding the industry is important.
Actively build your skills, I am always learning and looking for ways to improve, never stop learning.
Networking with professionals within the industry is important and will help you stay close to what is evolving.
Consider seeking mentorship from experienced individuals that you aspire to be like and will help guide your career path”.
In your opinion, what makes hospitality and tourism an exciting career path?
“Hospitality and tourism offer a dynamic and fast-paced environment. This industry provides the unique opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, fostering meaningful interactions that broaden perspectives.
A career in hospitality opens doors to travel and adventure, allowing professionals to explore new destinations while growing their careers”.
What are your goals and aspirations for the future?
“To become a recognised expert in my field, leveraging my skills and knowledge to make significant contributions to the hospitality industry while continuously learning and growing through new challenges and opportunities; ultimately aiming to open my own restaurant in future.
I would love to open my own restaurant and make it the best place it can be for people to enjoy and have a memorable experience. I love cooking and when your food makes people smile that is what it is all about”.
As you can see, Hira has had an incredible journey and still has some amazing ambitions ahead of him. We’re grateful to have had the chance to talk to him about his path and the goals he has set for the future.
If you’re looking for a role within hospitality and want to explore opportunities in a Nottinghamshire based company, then please visit www.caterer.com.
Posted on 20 January 2025
