Cameron

I first heard about Carluccio's through a friend who suggested I apply for a 48 week placement position as they thought the informality, the buzz and fresh food would suit my personality. I was studying Hospitality Management at the University of Plymouth at the time, so I forwarded my CV to Carluccio's and waited. The good news is that I did not have to wait long and before I knew it I had started my placement year.

During my year I experienced every aspect of running a successful business, from how each department runs, to hygiene and health and safety, personnel and training and commercial awareness. I was also able to put into practice all the theory I had been taught at University about how to be a great leader. I must admit to some mistakes along the way, but every Manager I worked with always took the time to help, assist and give me advice on how to be a better Manager. It was a steep learning curve but invaluable experience.

It must have worked as I was asked to assist in the recruitment for new openings as well as giving support for Christmas in the newly opened flagship Caffe in Covent Garden.

I was very sad to leave at the end of my placement year, but I felt the time spent had allowed me to grow as a Manager and was invaluable for the number of things I had learnt about how to manage a successful business.I took valuable knowledge back to my final year at University which helped me complete later assignments.

The good news is that I missed Carluccio's so much that when I graduated this year I came back! Since returning I have worked as an Assistant Manager in 3 Caffe's from Manchester to London and was the bar trainer at the opening of the Canterbury site. There is definitely never a dull day. I'm looking forward to the next step in my career...