A gifted private chef is not simply dear to his or her employer, they may often be essential. As such, an adventurous or enterprising employer may require the chef be prepared to accompany them as they travel. The chef must be able to accommodate this need without allowing a change of scenery to be a hindrance.
In short, a private chef needs to be a master in any setting.
Of course, a certain degree of flexibility is always being practiced. From time to time, he or she may be serving a varied number of guests or need to adapt their dishes to the season. The chef maintains the advantage of his or her kitchen, the home base. In the case of travel, the comfort of home is forfeited to accommodate the employer. The chef must quickly adapt.
Often this may mean adapting to the provisions of a kitchen in a yacht or aircraft, or merely a temporary change of residence. Quickly familiarizing themselves with the new environment, an effective chef will be able to manage wandering odors and minimize excessive noise, remaining as understated and non-intrusive abroad as the employer is accustomed to at home. This also means being able to work effectively with a change in staff or resources. As a guest in another kitchen, it is important to be gracious yet still always in command of the employer’s dining. These changes in venue provide the excitement and experience that many chefs miss out on otherwise and build a richer skillset.
Sometimes this change in staff may prohibit the chef from being present in person. In these instances, communication is essential. A private chef has the knowledge base and practices his employer depends upon and cannot be so easily replaced. He or she will not allow the employer to notice their absence by having an experience lesser to which they are accustomed. When absent, a devoted private chef will communicate the needs and customs of the employer to whomever will be acting in their stead, however temporarily.
If you believe you will be the master of your kitchen in any setting, J. Danielle & Co. would like to help you find your next opportunity. For ten years, we have worked to place the very best from the culinary field into homes and institutions where they may showcase their talents and find the greatest career satisfaction imaginable. Click here to find your next opportunity.
