How Do I Start a Career in Food Management?

Food management can mean a lot of things from managing large-scale food service or ensuring the quality of products in grocery stores to improving nutrition in school lunches or sourcing products for restaurant chains. Entering this field is a great opportunity and can lead to many rewarding and enjoyable experiences. For those hoping to start a career in food management, there are many steps to take. Making sure you are cut out for this field, getting a relevant education, and gaining experience in the vast field of food management are all important ways to begin this endeavor.

In order to make sure you are right for food management, take into account the many skills and personality traits you have. This field requires high energy, a dynamic approach to work, and the ability to think on your feet. It's obvious such a career path is not for everyone. One great way to determine if this field is good for you is to do some shadowing.

Try to contact professionals who manage restaurants, the food departments of hotels, companies, and others in the food industry to see if you can watch them while they work. Using this opportunity to ask any and every question about the industry can help you find out if you will fit in. If you are still intrigued after this experience, then it's time to become educated.

Getting an education in food management most often involves a technical, culinary, or university degree. Depending on your specific goals, financial situation, and time constraints, the type of degree that is right for you may vary. In the food management industry, experience is also important, so be sure you are focusing on this as well during your education.

The best way to get experience is to work with or under those already established in the field. Not only will this look great on a resume, but hands-on experience is one of the best ways to learn a specific industry like the realm of food management. If you have tons of experience coupled with a relevant education and great contacts, you are poised to land a job in this demanding and competitive field. Remember that this type of work allows for the possibility of lateral movements, so if you find yourself not completely enjoying your particular work, keep your head up and continue to explore related opportunities.