Rhiannon Taylor
Floor Ist, St Martins Lane
How old are you?
23
Where did you start your career?
The Alchemist New York Street
Give us a brief timeline of your career with the alchemist to date.
I started in 2014 as a busser while studying, then I was encouraged to train as a server and I loved it. Then moved abroad, but came home in time for the opening of the alchemist newcastle. There, I became an in-store trainer and over time, head server! I have just moved to London for the opening of St Martins Lane.
Tell us about your role
I make sure that my restaurant team are happy! By making sure the restaurant runs smoothly with exciting incentives, ongoing training both in groups and 1 on 1. I introduce new staff to the circle, encourage progression for everyone, develop my in-store trainers and train managers for the company.
What are your pet hates in the workplace?
Anything along the lines of “it’s not my section” or “that’s not my job.”
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a teacher or a scientist. Training teams in the alchemist seems to fit in with that!
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Continuing to develop our wonderful restaurant teams, either as head server of multiple venues or as part of the operations team.
What has been your biggest challenge in your current position?
Learning to overcome my fear of public speaking! As a trainer, I lead group training and meetings, so it is vital to be able to speak clearly to large groups – something I used to be terrified of doing.
What advice would you give to someone just starting a career with the alchemist?
You will be challenged and learn about so many different concepts and perspectives. It will seem a bit scary at first but bear with us, ask for help from our wonderful trainers and you’ll see why it is we do what we do.
