Frederic Kolde
Assistant Restaurant ManagerGrand Hyatt, Hong Kong
“After completing an apprenticeship in logistics, I worked for Lufthansa cargo and loved the international environment and dealing with customers, but it was only after a trip to Thailand and an idea with friends to open our own restaurant that I really realized my love for F&B. With this in mind I searched for the best school and chose SHMS with its international student body that would help me achieve my dream to work in Asia.After graduation I was accepted to do a one-year corporate training at the Grand Hyatt in Hong Kong, which gave me experience in many of the hotels F&B outlets. In May 2010 I was offered the position of Assistant Manager at the Steakhouse a fantastic opportunity as the hotel is Hyatt’s flagship in Asia and the restaurant has an amazing reputation. In 2011 I was involved in the restaurants major renovation and re-launch and it is a real achievement for me to see that the restaurant is really ‘the talk of the town’ and busy all of the time.
If you are thinking of studying hospitality you really have to be a social person with an outgoing personality. You work a lot in this industry and the financial rewards don’t come in until a certain level of management. This is not a 9-5 job, but if you are passionate it can be really rewarding.
My professional philosophy is to be happy, positive and love what you do!”
