The most challenging thing is to educate, train and inspire the next generation. The hospitality industry in London expands very rapidly, so there is always a shortage of great talent. We need to really focus on the training aspect of the front of the house, and to continue to make the industry appealing to strong candidates.

What I love best about my job is people. From the daily interaction with clients to the wonderful people drawn to work in this industry. Perhaps what I love most is closely tied to the greatest challenge. I love to inspire the next generation and give them guidance to help them find their feet.

Often we are working with very young people looking to find their way or people who have moved far from their loved ones to establish a career. It’s our obligation to provide a job with a fair salary, good training, and good work life balance. My goal is to provide insight into the industry and a place they can call a second home where they feel enriched and secure. If we will treat them well, they will treat well our guests and develop their lives in the best possible way knowing they are valued.

Paulo de Tarso, former maître d’ at Bar Boulud (London, United Kingdom)