Careers Expo showcases industry opportunities

Twenty-two companies provided inspiration and information to more than 130 students at the William Angliss Institute Virtual Careers and Employment Expo across two days in September.

Each company presented for 30 minutes on job opportunities, what employers are looking for, plus sharing industry insights.

Six companies including Oriental Teahouse, Rice Paper Scissors and Nandos attended for the first time, joining industry experts from such well-known brands as Hostplus, Pan Pacific Hotels, Koko Black, Marriott International and Delaware North.

With a rundown from Lucas Restaurants’ Group Talent Manager Sigrid Tuazon, Chin Chin's Melbourne Executive Chef Daniel Briggs and Sydney Executive Chef Matthew McLeod, the company are looking for staff as the restaurants start to reopen from lockdown and with new restaurants opening.

"We encourage you to get in touch with us as we have some exciting new projects in the pipeline. Also do some research so you can apply for the restaurant or role you that suits you best. Expressions of interest are welcome here: LUCAS Restaurants Expression of Interest," Ms Tuazon said.

Chef Matthew McLeod said he looks for attitude and eagerness and said there are plenty of opportunities if you have the passion and drive where the skills can be taught.

"The attitude of industry has changed too, most of our staff work a 38-40 hour week and we want to support you to succeed," Mr McLeod said.

Operations manager at The Big Group John Brooks also shared how the industry will open up with many opportunities for working in hospitality.

"We value drive and enthusiasm and a desire to learn," John said.

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery and Certificate IV in Patisserie Dual Qualification student Ellie Archer said she found the 30 minute webinars were a good length to convey enough information, and were nicely spread out across the two days.

"I liked when some businesses had Google doc sheets and direct email addresses for William Angliss Institute students to sign up, which was a great incentive," Ellie said.

VCAL senior student Hannah Bennett Mazzilli said she also had a great experience at this expo.
"I thoroughly enjoyed all the webinars I attended which was nearly all of them. I learnt about so many opportunities and experiences which I could be a part of and liked how we were able to get business' direct contact details," Hannah said.

Published 15 September 2021