Patrick Gaunt

Experience

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  The Meynell Ingram Arms

  Apr 2009 - Sept 2011

  Sous chef

  This is one of many examples from which I have built up from the bottom. I first started working in this establishment as a KP. As my first proper job, I was quite nervous but still intrigued as to what I was capable of at such a young age. One busy day, a commis chef hadn't turned up for work so I spoke to the Head chef if I could just help out for the day. It was just prepping vegetables I do admit. But after that I brought a separate set of clothes in each shift just in case they needed me again. Head chef noticed this and made me a frequent prepper. After, that I watched and learned, building up my knowledge and experience. For my last 5 months of work before I started University I was given the title of Sous Chef and trusted to hold the kitchen together on the absence of Head chef. I have been informed that if I am ever near home, that I am assured a job in this prestigious establishment. Show less

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  University of Derby

  Sept 2011 - Apr 2015

  Culinary Arts Student

  I have previously studied Professional Culinary Arts at the University of Derby, Buxton. This was a two year foundation course, and after two years I finalised in International Hospitality Management, where I specialised within the wine industry. I have always been a hard-working individual, my grades and proof of dedication reflects this. Already it has made me a stronger and more confident person, as well as increasing my skills to enhance my ability to get where I want to be.

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  The Bull i' th' Thorn

  Nov 2011 - Nov 2012

  Assistant Manager

  Before my role as Assistant Manager I was just a Bar man. I wanted to do more so started helping out in the kitchen with the chef, enhancing more skills for myself. After time, I began to get even more involved by assisting in the organisation of events such as birthday parties and medieval banquets. After four months of throwing myself in the deep end and excelling, my boss asked me to have the title of Assistant Manager. This was a thrill to me. I was then in charge of staff rota, events, stock taking and ordering and even a portion of office work. Show less

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  COMPASS GROUP PLC

  May 2012 - May 2017

  Bar/Suite Manager

  As a manager in a big company like Compass, some people may think that you could be classed as another number or small cog in the titanic machine of a business. This is not so. I have been working events at Twickenham for a while now and I can say that it has given me the greatest experience so far. I have been placed in many different departments; from retail bars to VIP rooms. This has made me utilise my transferable skills in many different situations. I have been managing a room for such names as David Guetta and Emily Sande. This has been the Hospitality side of my work, which completely differs from managing a retail bar.This job has given me the confidence to really push myself and proven to me that factors like age, are really no match for shear drive and determination. In the month of November 2013, I was travelling down to London on Thursday evenings after lectures at the University of Derby on Monday and Tuesday, ready for work on Friday morning. After working for the Friday and Saturday, I would return on the Sunday and be in lecture on the Monday morning. This has really help me manage my time. In addition, it has shown me how much I want to succeed. Fatigue has not effected either aspect of my life, proving how much I push myself to succeed. As stated before, Compass has really helped me and my professional development and I am grateful for that. Show less

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  The Winery

  Jun 2013 - Jun 2015

  Food and Beverage Assistant

  I have previously worked in a lovely wine bar/restaurant in Burton on Trent. It is an old abbey and has plenty of history to it. It is located in the heart of the town, however, has been described a an 'oasis' due to its tranquil gardens. The old monumental wall which surrounds these sections this establishment off from the busy hubbub of town, making it the perfect place for a quiet drink.The food is also top of the range, with everything made on site and specialist chefs producing spectacular dishes which leave customers amazed. I work front of house dealing with customers which I thoroughly enjoy. Also, I believe I have personally gained a lot from the opportunity that I have been given here. Including customer service skills and communication. Show less

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  Rendez-Vous

  Dec 2015 - May 2016

  Sous chef

  This is a French chalet-style restaurant, welcoming custom from all over the world. The menu here respects the mountain cuisine that would be expected, with some of our own favourites.

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  ITAL SARDO LIMITED

  Sept 2017 - Feb 2019

  Operations Manager

  Here I personally source, import and distribute Italian wines. Our aim is to bring something different yet extremely satisfying to the market.With this role I build the business and increase brand awareness, as well as developing some great return custom. With the introduction of the on-trade channel of sales in 2018, this is a fantastic new opportunity for the business to expose our great wines to a much broader market.

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  PG Approved

  Jan 2018 - Jan 2020

  Wine Tasting Host and Tutor

  Here is my role as a self-employed Wine Tasting Host and Tutor. As well as my full-time job within the wine industry, I have chosen to take up a job in sharing great wine experiences. Within this, I meet many types of people, from experienced 'winos' to beginners within the industry. It is great to meet and discuss wine from so many perspectives as well as giving paying customers a fantastic experience.

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  Sandridge Barton Wines

  Feb 2019 - now

  Assistant Winemaker

  Working alongside the head winemaker with another colleague of mine, this role is as diverse as it gets. A small team, all from different backgrounds, allows us to test and push the boundaries of winemaking in England and produce the highest quality of wines that we can; whether it be red, white, rose or sparkling.

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  Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service

  Jun 2019 - now

  Firefighter

  Part of the retained service for Buckfastleigh Fire Station. One of the most challenging and exciting experiences to date. Working in a team for emergency rescues, fires, RTC's and much more. A great role that offers something back to the community.