NEIL’S STORY
P E T-X i C A S E S T U DY Neil Ashby, aged 32, had spent 12 years working in kitchens across Coventry and Warwickshire before finding himself unemployed. Just before the pandemic hit, Neil made the decision to look for a role in IT or customer services, so contacted PET-Xi to help develop his computer skills to support him in securing employment. Knowing about Neil’s skills and experience in hospitality, PET-Xi reached out to the former learner to offer him a key role at its new restaurant, Metropolis, while supporting him to find employment in his preferred industry.
Support provided by PET-Xi Neil took part in the Level 2 IT User Skills programme, which allowed him to become proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and other Office software. PET-XI also provided support in helping Neil to produce a CV and apply for jobs. Gary Drake, Senior Contract Manager at PET-Xi, said: “We first met Neil before the pandemic had started and wanted to help him make successful contact with employers while also demonstrating the hard skills required for the modern workplace in general, not just the kitchen. “When the national lockdown was implemented, the hospitality industry of course received a huge blow, and the collateral damage of this was the skilled workforce who were unable to find employment. “Neil had already looked to develop his skills in IT and has shown great resilience to keep going despite trying to find employment during an incredibly difficult time, and I’m sure that characteristic is one of the reasons why PET-XI reached out to him to support with the opening of Metropolis.”
Gary Drake
The outcome Neil was offered a position as a commis chef at PET-Xi’s new restaurant, working alongside his former colleague and Metropolis Head Chef Sean Woodall. He supported the restaurant on its opening and is now being helped to find a role in IT or customer services, with a number of interviews already lined up.
“The whole team at PET-Xi were both extremely friendly and knowledgeable, they have been willing and able to help me with any problems I’ve had while looking for a new job. “They have supported me beyond the week-long programme, and have shown by getting in touch with me that they care about the s uccess of their learners beyond the completion of their courses. “It was great to be back in the kitchen after so long out and I’m incredibly grateful to PET-Xi for thinking of me for the role. “It’s also fantastic that the team understood that I didn’t want to move back into the hospitality industry permanently and are now supporting me to find employment in my preferred area.” Neil Ashby
If you would like to do the same course as Neil we would love to hear from you! To sign up call Owen McKendry on: 07387 412 952 or email: omckendry@pet-xi.co.uk