Hello everyone and thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my journey from being a chef to becoming a Credit Controller. I hope my experience encourages anyone who may be considering a career change or looking to develop new skills.
I worked for Berkeley Scott as a temporary chef on and off for around 12 to 13 years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I enjoyed working at different sites, meeting new people, and getting involved in a variety of operations to produce food that was both visually appealing and enjoyable to eat.
What I particularly enjoyed about agency work was the variety. Every assignment was different, and I never quite knew what to expect. I could be preparing salads one day, working on main courses the next, or helping with fine dining events and special functions. I enjoyed adapting to new environments, building relationships with different teams, and contributing wherever I was needed. There was never a dull moment, and it kept me motivated and engaged.
While working as a chef, I was also studying AAT Accounting qualifications because I had developed an interest in finance and hoped one day to work in an accounts department. I knew that gaining practical experience would be important, so I asked whether there might be an opportunity to volunteer within the finance team.
Fortunately, that opportunity came along, and I spent around six months carrying out voluntary work in the Credit Control department. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and quickly realised that many of the skills I had developed as a chef were transferable. Working in different kitchens had taught me how to adapt, solve problems, work under pressure, and communicate effectively with a wide range of people.
Over the following years, I continued my chef work while keeping in touch with my manager and maintaining my interest in finance. In January 2025, I mentioned that I would be interested if a finance role ever became available. Then, on 14 February 2025, I received a text message asking whether I would be interested in applying for a Credit Controller position.
It was an opportunity I knew I had to take with both hands.
I have now been in the role for over a year, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Moving from a kitchen environment into finance meant stepping outside of my comfort zone and learning a completely new set of skills. There was a lot to absorb, from understanding credit control processes to learning systems such as Sage 200, SharePoint, spreadsheets, and our internal systems.
At first, it felt like navigating a huge maze. There were so many new processes, systems, and responsibilities to understand. However, by taking lots of notes, asking questions, and being willing to learn, I gradually became more confident. I still ask questions today because learning never really stops.
One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that no question is a silly question. Being willing to seek guidance and take ownership of your own development is essential. Alongside support from colleagues, I have also used additional resources to help build my knowledge and become more independent in my role.
Many of the skills I developed as a chef have proved valuable in finance. Attention to detail, organisation, communication, and maintaining high standards are just as important when preparing invoices, statements, and customer communications as they are when preparing and presenting food.
I have also appreciated the encouragement I received from my mum, who spent many years working in administration and secretarial roles. Her advice was simple: “Don’t worry. As you practise using the systems, you’ll get the hang of it.” Looking back, she was absolutely right.
If someone is considering a career change, my advice is simple: go for it. Don’t be afraid to learn new skills or challenge yourself. You may already have more transferable skills than you realise. With a willingness to learn, ask questions, and remain open to opportunities, you can achieve more than you might think.
I am incredibly grateful that I took the leap from chef to Credit Controller. The experience has been life-changing, rewarding, and full of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Finally, I would like to thank my manager, the Finance Director, and everyone at Berkeley Scott for giving me the opportunity to make the career change I had always hoped for. Their support and belief in me have helped make this journey possible, and I look forward to continuing to learn, develop, and contribute to the years ahead.
-Mark Wellz