Leslie Lachiche

Having studied translation at University, my journey into hospitality was not a regular one.

It began more than a decade ago, as a commis chef at a restaurant in France, where I learned on the job. Moving on from here, while working at Salford Hall Hotel in 2019, I was part of the brigade as a CDP when we earned our first rosette. On two occasions I was called upon to rescue the kitchen when the head chefs and most of the brigade left, during service, without notice. The hours were crazy and I worked on my own most of the time, but I made it work. This was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, giving me the opportunity to prove to myself what I was capable of.

My relationship with Off to Work began with me joining as a casual chef. After a while, I joined the office team, first as a coach and now permanently as an assistant to John, organising the back of house and culinary operations. Having the opportunity to form relationships and help our chefs find the right fit for their needs and skills has been awesome. I get to know them and see them thrive in new and, often super exciting venues. Every now and then, I am afforded the chance to jump in and work alongside the team members in various shifts, which is something that I have found very rewarding.