Scott, aka Elitelixir's CV

 

Personal Profile

 

A Journey Through London's Elite: Catering, Culture, and Connections

 

My catering career has been a remarkable journey through the heart of London's elite circles, working with Payne & Gunter, the illustrious caterers known for their world-class service. This role has not only afforded me the privilege of walking among politicians and notable figures in London's most prestigious venues but has also allowed me to witness the grandeur of exclusive events firsthand. After hours, I've explored exhibitions and admired art pieces of extraordinary beauty, enhancing my appreciation for the finer things in life.

 

In this vibrant environment, I've seen buglers and pipers perform in honor of Royalty, experiencing the joy and celebration of their presence—a privilege that few can claim. Serving celebrated sports personalities and individuals of remarkable intellect has been both an honor and a testament to the diverse interactions my career has afforded me.

 

Originating from Northampton, my expertise as a fully trained caterer has been put to the test, working tables and occasionally stepping into the kitchen for a renowned Indian restaurateur during his extensive catering events in the capital. My experiences in Ealing, where my landlord shared personal anecdotes of encounters with the now King, underscore the deep connections and the rich tapestry of my professional life. His restaurant, a gem within Ealing, symbolizes the excellence and prestige that have characterized my journey.

 

From Grand Events to Intimate Gatherings: A Comprehensive Catering Voyage

 

In addition to my experiences among the luminaries of London, my career has spanned both local and national scales, engaging in various facets of the catering industry. I have led and contributed to the execution of numerous events, from the intimate charm of weddings to the grandeur of national celebrations. Whether behind the scenes in the kitchen or at the forefront, serving guests directly, each role has been a cornerstone, building upon my repertoire of invaluable experiences.

 

The dynamic nature of my journey has also placed me in the midst of thrilling sporting events, allowing me to serve the public amidst the excitement of live competition. This unique vantage point has not only enriched my professional life but also deepened my appreciation for the power of sports in bringing people together.

 

Transitioning roles, I embraced the challenge of becoming a croupier for 18 months. This period honed my precision, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments. Subsequently, moving into a valet position, I returned to my roots in catering, bringing with me the diverse skills and insights gained from my time as a licensed Croupier in England. Each phase of my career has been guided by a commitment to excellence, adaptability, and a deep-seated passion for service, whether it be through the lens of catering, the excitement of sports, or the meticulous nature of casino operations.

 

Reinvention and Ascension: From Casino Floors to Corporate Facilitation

 

My departure from the casino industry marked the beginning of a profound professional transformation, as I ventured deeper into the realm of customer service. Embracing various office-based roles, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement and skill development, ultimately leading to a pivotal role as a Learning Facilitator at the company formerly known as Transco. This transition wasn't merely a change of environment; it was a comprehensive reinvention of my professional identity.

 

Starting from the ground up, I demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, consistently surpassing call targets through a blend of professionalism and competence. My role in handling emergency calls was not just a test of my communication skills, but a crucible that refined my ability to respond with calm, precision, and empathy under pressure. Each interaction was an opportunity to make a meaningful difference, reinforcing the importance of clear, effective communication in critical situations.

 

My ascent to the role of Learning Facilitator was a culmination of these experiences, embodying the skills and insights I had gained along the way. In this capacity, I leveraged my diverse background to foster learning and development, drawing on my rich tapestry of experiences to guide and inspire others. This role allowed me to not only impart knowledge but also to continue my journey of personal and professional growth, solidifying my commitment to excellence, adaptability, and the empowerment of others.

 

From Compassionate Volunteer to Inspirational Caregiver: A Journey of Service and Leadership

 

My career took another meaningful turn when I embraced the opportunity to volunteer at Oxfam. This experience wasn't just about offering time; it led to me stepping into the leadership role of Volunteer Deputy Manager. It was here that I faced the challenge of revitalizing a demotivated team of volunteers. Through dedication and a strategic approach, we not only increased revenue but also managed to close the store on a high note, despite the bittersweet circumstances surrounding the closure.

 

This chapter in my career was a prelude to my subsequent role as Deputy Manager at Cancer Research, where I continued to apply my skills in leadership and retail management to support a vital cause. My time in these roles underscored the importance of empathy, teamwork, and the power of a motivated team to make a tangible impact.

 

Transitioning to my current role as a full-time live-in carer, I've drawn upon my extensive background in catering to create a nurturing, safe, and healthy environment. My commitment extends beyond basic care; I leverage my culinary skills and knowledge to enhance the quality of life for the individual I support, embodying the essence of personalized, compassionate care.

 

Between these pivotal roles, I had the unique experience of working at St. Andrews Hospital, serving patients their meals and assisting chefs in meal preparation. This role was not just about serving food; it was about providing comfort and a sense of normalcy to patients during their recovery, further enriching my understanding of care and service.

 

A Tapestry of Compassion: From Retail Leadership to Life-Changing Care

 

Volunteering to Victory: A Beacon of Change at Oxfam

 

My journey of transformation and growth took a pivotal turn during a period of unemployment, when I seized the opportunity to volunteer at Oxfam. This wasn't just a chance to fill my time; it became a platform for profound personal and professional development. My dedication and knack for leadership quickly shone through, leading me to the role of Volunteer Deputy Manager. It was here that I faced one of my most rewarding challenges yet: reviving a dispirited team of volunteers.

 

Through a blend of strategic leadership and unwavering optimism, I spearheaded a turnaround that saw not only a surge in revenue but also a reinvigorated team spirit. Our efforts culminated in a bittersweet triumph as we closed the store's doors for the last time, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and community impact.

 

Cultivating Connections: A Charity Event to Remember

 

During this transformative time at Oxfam, I had the privilege of organizing a charity event that would leave an indelible mark on my career. The event drew none other than Alan Moore, the renowned author whose works have captivated millions. This experience not only enriched my skills in event management but also deepened my appreciation for the power of storytelling and its capacity to unite and inspire.

 

A New Chapter: Empathy and Expertise at St. Andrews

 

My journey then led me to St. Andrews, a mental health hospital with a legacy of supporting high-profile individuals, including the admirable Frank Bruno. Here, I contributed to the wellbeing of patients through the provision of meals and assistance in the kitchen, further honing my skills in catering and care. This role was more than a job; it was an opportunity to provide comfort and normalcy to those on their path to recovery.

 

Excellence in Charity Retail: Leading at Cancer Research

 

The skills and experiences garnered from my time at Oxfam and St. Andrews seamlessly transitioned into my role as Deputy Manager at a high-end Cancer Research boutique in Northampton. In this capacity, I not only contributed to generating significant revenue for the charity but also exemplified the impact of compassionate leadership in the retail sector.

 

Full Circle: A Live-In Carer's Journey of Compassion

 

In a wonderful twist of fate, my path leads me back to Christel, whom I met during my tenure at Oxfam.  I now live as her full-time live-in carer. This role allows me to integrate my vast experiences in catering, retail, and volunteer management to provide personalized, compassionate care.

Parallel to my caregiving duties, I've embarked on a creative venture, generating online content for a magazine. This endeavour, alongside my online advertising platform and consultancy services, underscores my multifaceted career and dedication to making a difference, whether through direct care, inspiring stories, or strategic business support.

 

In this chapter of my life, every day is an opportunity to apply my diverse skills in nurturing and enriching the lives of others. My journey from volunteer to caregiver illustrates the power of compassion, leadership, and the enduring impact of service.

Qualifications

July 2023:

Published my first novel, Point Zero: Journey to the Singularity.

2001:

Certificate in Social Science with the Open University 

1989 – 1991:

BTEC National Diploma in 

Hotel, Catering & Institutional Operations 

 

Food Hygiene & the Handling of Food Exam 

(For the Royal Institute of Public Health and Hygiene.) 

 

6 - GCSE ‘O’ Level Equivalent Passes. (Grade ‘C’ or above.) 

(In the key subjects of Maths, English Literature, English Language, Integrated Science, Integrated Humanities and Information Systems.)

Previous Employment

 

26.10(Oct)2016 - 09.07(Jul)2017 (HAD TO RESUME CARING FULL-TIME)

Cancer Research UK

ASSISTANT MANAGER

* Responsibility                         * Patience

* Diplomacy                               * Communication Skills

* Team Thinking                        * Customer Service

* Paperwork                               * Organised

* Use of Initiative                       * Integrity & Honesty

* Reliability                                  * Managerial Skills

 

24.11(Nov)2012 – 23.08(Aug)2016 and 10.07(Jul)2017 - PRESENT

FULL-TIME CARER

* Patience                       * Self Disciplined

* Responsibility              * Organised Paper Work

* Adaptability                  * Housekeeping

* Flexible                          * Level-Headed

* Understanding             * Caring

 

I am committed to ensuring the lady I care for lives in a home where rent and bills are paid in a timely manner and will manage her income to ensure she is well-fed, suitably clothed and living in a safe, clean and pleasant environment.

Whilst at home I strive to ensure, the lady I care for, lives as positive a life as possible and that when she goes out feels safe, comfortable and can meet all her health, governmental and social appointments.

I will always endeavour to provide the best support for ensuring her affairs are handled to the highest standard I can manage and in the best of her interests.

 

05.11(Nov)2012 – 23.11(Nov)2012 (HAD TO END PART-TIME WORK TO CARE FULL-TIME)

BCS Northampton Ltd.

CLEANER

* Use of Initiative                 * Attention to Details

* Quick & Efficient                * Thorough

* Hygiene                              * Time Keeping

* Awareness                          * Team Worker

* Reliability

                                

05.12(Dec)2011 - 23.10(Oct)2012 (LEFT FULL-TIME WORK TO WORK PART-TIME AND CARE)

St. Andrew’s Healthcare

HOTEL SERVICES ASSISTANT (H.S.A.)

* Customer Service Skills             * Hygiene

* Attention to Details                     * Team Thinking

* Thorough                                      * Quick & Efficient

 

21.02(Feb)2011 - 14.10(Oct)2011

Oxfam

SHOP MANAGER

(Fixed contract from 21.02(Feb)2011 until shop closure of 14.10(Oct)2011)

Volunteer Deputy Manager (From 31.12(Dec)2010 until 20.02(Feb)2011)

Volunteer Shop Assistant (From 15.07(Jul)2009 until 30.12(Dec)2010)

* Responsibility                       * Patience

* Diplomacy                             * Communication Skills

* Team Thinking                      * Customer Service

* Paperwork                             * Organised

* Use of Initiative                     * Integrity & Honesty

* Reliability                              * Managerial Skills

Hobbies and Interests

- In July, 2023 - I published my first novel, Point Zero: Journey to the Singularity, available for sale from my online magazine directly.

So, I enjoy planning, and with a view to publishing future works, in order to create a successful series of books.

* Keeping Fit * Cooking * Playing Torn, Chess and many other recreational activities * Learning *