The Alchemist launches new apprenticeship scheme with Smart Training & Recruitment

In July 2010, premium bar and restaurant, The Alchemist opened its first venue in Spinningfields, Manchester, fast-forward eight years, the award-winning operator now has three Manchester locations. To date, The Alchemist has created hundreds of jobs for the local community and is committed now more than ever to give back to the city where it all began.

People, job creation and career development are at the core of The Alchemist, and the operator has today announced its partnership with SMART training and recruitment; a dynamic training provider that aims to deliver high quality, Government funded Apprenticeship Programmes. The Alchemist has partnered with the scheme and will offer five Commis Chef positions; three of which will be based in Manchester. The programme will run for 12 – 18 months and will be delivered through a combination of on the job training as well as expert 1-to-1 training.

Simon Potts, Managing Director of The Alchemist commented “We are totally committed in our support of the city that has been pivotal in our journey as a brand. People are at our core, which is why we offer extensive training, genuine care and clear progression for everyone who works with us. We are always looking for new ways in which we can give back to our communities and our new apprenticeship scheme will be a fantastic way to support the chefs of the future. It was a no-brainer to launch the scheme in Manchester, before rolling it out across our other sites. Although we are steadily making our mark across the UK, Manchester has always been our home, and anything we can do to give back to the community that supports us so greatly, we will of course do.”

Executive chef Seamus O’ Donnell commented “Our kitchen philosophy here at The Alchemist is based on trust, honesty and reliability and we are extremely proud to be introducing our apprenticeship scheme in Manchester, Leeds and Nottingham. We have chosen to work alongside SMART training and recruitment, as it’s apparent our values are aligned and most importantly, are equally passionate in developing the people of the future. We look forward to welcoming our first apprentices into The Alchemist team.”