Aston University: Hospitality group founded by Aston University MBA graduates set to create over 200 new jobs in the Midlands
A Midlands-based hospitality group founded by two Aston University MBA graduates is rapidly growing their business and their workforce as they get set for their busiest ever year of weddings, events and new venues.
Caviar & Chips was founded in 2017 by Jonathan Carter-Morris and Marc Hornby who together created a bespoke wedding catering company when Jonathan couldn’t find a caterer that could help him with his own wedding plans.
Since then, the business has grown to over 90 employees. Becoming a hospitality group the entrepreneurial pair have added a 16th century pub in Kenilworth, a botanical restaurant in Warwick, an 18th century boutique wedding venue in Shropshire, a residency at a stately home in Shropshire and a second residency at a brand new golf club and estate in the Cotswolds.
Julie Crump, chief operations officer at Caviar & Chips, said:
“It’s a really exciting time for us across all of our brands. We managed to navigate our way through a pandemic which sent shock waves through every sector and arguably saw the hospitality industry hardest hit. We were really lucky and have kept growing. Recruiting new people into the business and forming great partnerships to grow our unique portfolio has been a key focus for us.
“No two days are ever the same and certainly in our bespoke catering business, no two menus are ever the same. We’re recruiting talented people across a variety of roles from our kitchens to front of house and from marketing to operations. We’re bucking the trend for what it’s like to work in hospitality and having worked in the industry for over 15 years myself, I’m personally really passionate about supporting the next generation of leaders into our group.”
Grace Slade, host and wellbeing coordinator, explained why she enjoys working in hospitality:
“I enjoy building relationships with people and using interpersonal skills, which I feel comes hand in hand with the hospitality industry.
“Working in a pub, you see a variety of people come through the door on a weekly basis, all with different stories and backgrounds. Some may be celebrating an anniversary and some may be celebrating a graduation – but what I enjoy the most is being able to be a part of their day and celebrating with them. Even if it’s just bringing them a free glass of fizz for a toast, it could make their day! The role makes me feel empowered to provide the best experience for guests, and go above and beyond to ensure they’re having the best possible service whilst they’re with us.”