Poetry in motion Andy Urbanek and Petrus Madutlela, co-owners of The Poet in Matfield, came to the UK via the Czech Republic and South Africa and worked in a variety of jobs before taking over their delightful country pub. Here, they talk about their journey to success
When Andy Urbanek arrived in the UK, he had no idea that one day he would co-own a country pub. “I studied to be an electrician in the Czech Republic,” says Andy, “before moving to Kent. After that, life was eventful, to say the least! I took any job going, from washing cars to roofing, painting and decorating, washing dishes, serving tea and coffee in Bewl Water’s sailing club, and being part of the crew on Bewl’s ferry, the Swallow – I even served pizza to Kate Moss at Glastonbury! “In all seriousness, it was a testing time, just like any start in a foreign country. However, I believe that I have worked for, and with, some of the best people I could ever meet. I have learned a lot from them.” After two years, Andy decided to see if he could make his stay in the UK permanent, so looked for a career. “As I love chatting to people and good food, hospitality seemed the right choice,” he says. “With my CV in my hand, I walked into the reception of Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells and it started from there. “Working at Hotel du Vin was an eye opener and I loved everything about it. But after four-and-a-half years there I decided to see what it was like working for an independent business, so I joined Jean-Jaques ( JJ) Fontaine at the Chez JJ and Rendezvous restaurants in Tunbridge Wells.” When both restaurants were sold due to JJ’s health, Andy moved to The Wells Kitchen and joined Alex Greig, now owner of the Fuggles Beer Cafés in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. “Again, it was a fantastic experience and the knowledge I gained by just being around him and his team was incredible,” says Andy. “I then moved on to something very exciting and very new to me and Tunbridge Wells at the time, the Champagne and Seafood bar opened by Matthew Sankey in The Old Fishmarket on The Pantiles. The environment was quite different to what I was used to and I loved it. I also came to understand a lot more about seafood, fish and its sustainability. I commend Matthew for all the work he does to support this. “After that, I moved to The Poet at Matfield as the previous owner, Charlie, was looking for a manager and I was looking to move from the town to a village. Then Petrus came along and we struck the perfect note together, so when the chance came to take over The Poet, we didn’t hesitate.” A natural people-person, Andy was perfect to lead the front-ofhouse team. “I love being out front greeting our guests, having a chat, serving a delicious glass of wine or beautiful plate of food that Petrus and his team have prepared,” he says. “Also, you have the best understanding of your guests needs when you’re physically there with them. And as I said before, people I have worked for have blessed me with everything I know, so I would like to pass this on to my employees and guests, too. KUDOS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
When it comes to the most important qualities for a successful front of house team, Andy says the essentials are trust, work ethic, knowledge of the product and good communication. “After that it’s the individual’s character.” Ask Andy what his main responsibilities are and he laughs. “Everything that the business requires, from serving guests to doing the accounts, polishing mirrors and cleaning the toilets! It’s our business and we need to look after all aspects of it as best as we can. “It also gives me the opportunity to show my employees that if I can do it, then there is no excuse for someone else not to. “This job gives many rewards in many shapes and forms. For me, the best part is seeing your staff doing well and enjoying what they do, and our guests enjoying their experience. Letters of gratitude are priceless. “We have lots of plans for The Poet that we would like to and will do. It’s all still a work in progress and there’s still a few things we would like to improve. But I’m not giving away any details just yet!” LOV E FOOD AND DRINK
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