Generation Chef
Cultivating Culinary Excellence
Connection Between Hastings Hotels and Rotary International
Hastings Hotels has a long-standing connection with Rotary International, exemplified by our founder, the late Sir William Hastings OBE, who was also one of the founders and a former President of the East Belfast Rotary Club.
Sir William’s deep-rooted commitment to community service and nurturing local talent is embedded in the values that define Hastings Hotels today. We continue to uphold these principles by supporting initiatives that help cultivate young leaders, including the next generation of hospitality professionals. This partnership reflects our shared belief in fostering positive change and making a difference in the community.
Why Hastings Supports Generation Chef ?
As Northern Ireland’s leading collection of hotels, we are passionate about investing in the future of the hospitality and culinary industries. Our involvement with Generation Chef allows us to contribute directly to the development of young culinary talent, offering opportunities to aspiring chefs who demonstrate creativity, passion, and ambition. By supporting this initiative, we help young chefs gain the experience and recognition they deserve, ensuring that they can thrive in a competitive industry. Through this partnership, we also reinforce our commitment to the continued growth of the culinary sector and its future leaders.
Damian Tumilty, Executive Head Chef of the 5-star Grand Central Hotel commented: “Northern Ireland has a rich heritage of chefing talent, however in recent years it is fair to say that less young people are choosing it as a career and Hastings Hotels is on a mission to change that. It’s our hope, that getting involved in fantastic initiatives such as Generation Chef, that as an industry, we can encourage and support the younger generation to explore a career as a chef and open them up to all the limitless opportunities that lie ahead.”
Hastings Hotels’ Provision for Employees and the Industry
At Hastings Hotels, we pride ourselves on providing clear career pathways for all our employees, especially within the culinary team. From entry-level positions to senior roles, we are dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering career growth. Our structured training and development programmes are designed to equip our staff with the skills they need to succeed, offering ongoing opportunities for learning, progression and recognition.
For example, the Grand Central Hotel’s Pastry Chef Faith O’Neill, is just 23, and started as Commis Chef on work placement. After quickly demonstrating her passion, skill and sheer talent she is now progressing her career with us and, under the guidance of the hotel’s Executive Head Chef, is running the pastry kitchen and absolutely thriving.
Whilst the Culloden Estate & Spa’s Chef de Partie, Ben McDonald, received a Gold medal at the Riso Gallo Young Risotto Chef Competition after impressing the judges with his culinary skills.
In the culinary field, we are especially focused on supporting young chefs, to excite and inspire them, ensuring they receive the hands-on experience and mentorship needed to excel in their careers. Through initiatives like Generation Chef and our internal training programmes, Hastings Hotels remains committed to elevating culinary excellence and contributing to the overall advancement of the hospitality industry.
