Rising stars
With Phanthita Srikanok, general catering manager, Grazing.
What is your current role and what does it entail?
I’m currently a general catering manager at Grazing, where I oversee the planning, coordination and delivery of our catering services. My role is all about bringing people and food together in the best possible way.
I lead every aspect of our operations, from sales and client relationships to logistics, staffing and budgeting, making sure each event runs smoothly and meets our standards of quality, profitability and client satisfaction. It’s a job that blends leadership, creativity and teamwork, and no two days are ever the same.
Why did you want to work in catering?
I’ve always been passionate about food, service and creating experiences that people remember. For me, catering is about more than just cooking – it’s about connection. I love the idea of bringing people together around food and seeing their enjoyment in what we create. It’s where I can express my creativity and share something I genuinely love with others.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I really enjoy meeting new people and being part of their special occasions, whether that’s a corporate event or a personal celebration. It’s incredibly rewarding to know you’ve played a role in making something memorable.
I also thrive on the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the job. Every event brings something new – different menus, themes and challenges – and that keeps me motivated and inspired. It allows me to be my authentic self every day.
How do you think we can attract more rising stars into the industry?
There’s still a perception that it means long hours and little reward, and I think we need to shift that narrative. Catering today is creative, dynamic and full of opportunity.
We should be showcasing the excitement of what we do – the innovation, the teamwork and the variety. Sharing real stories of people who have built amazing careers in catering, from chefs to event planners, can help show what’s possible.
Offering short training programmes, apprenticeships or even ‘taster days’ can make the industry more accessible. Working with schools, colleges and job centres to demonstrate the breadth of opportunities available would also help.
Finally, of course, we can use social media to our advantage, showing behind-the-scenes moments, the energy of our teams and the joy of seeing an event come to life. It’s about showing that catering isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle full of creativity, connection and purpose.
What is your biggest ambition?
My biggest ambition is to combine culinary creativity with sustainability, delivering unforgettable dining experiences that delight clients while caring for the planet. I also want to mentor and support others on their journeys. As I continue to grow, I hope to guide and develop new managers, helping them become the next shining stars of our industry.
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