Food for thought

Tim Hannagen has always had a passion for food. So much so he travelled across the Tasman to pursue his dreams and now works as the Food and Beverage Manager at the Holiday Inn in Sydney, Australia.

And, it all began at Otago Polytechnic. "During my first year at Otago Polytechnic I studied Cookery level 3. I then decided to go into food and beverage management and did my Diploma in Hospitality Management."

"While I was studying I also attended the Waiters competition in Auckland where I won a gold medal for the waiter’s section and beverage server of the year."

While completing his studies, Tim worked as a Duty Manager at the Southern Cross Hotel in Dunedin, and then moved onto the Mecure Hotel as the Restaurant and Bar Manager.

"After a few years, I decided to move to Australia and worked as a Restaurant Supervisor at the Sydney Harbour Marriott. I then applied for a position at the Holiday Inn Sydney as the Food and Beverage Manager and two years later, I’m still here."

Tim credits Otago Polytechnic as the starting point of his successful career in hospitality.

"Otago Polytechnic has given me the tools and the resources to become what I am today. When I look back I appreciate all the work my teachers did for me. They have been the most influential people in my career and I still keep in close contact with lecturers."

As his career continues to unfold, Tim keeps a close eye on his professional goals.

"I would like to stay with the Holiday Inn and progress into an assistant manager role and then through to general manager."

For those considering a career in hospitality, Tim’s story is definitely food for thought.