Grow your Chef career with Accor: an interview with Chef Viktoria

How did your interest in cooking begin?

“My mother was at home looking after two children, and as her constant helper, I wanted to do everything she did and to learn from her. She was a good cook, and her knowledge of cooking was passed down through generations from her grandmother and her mother. 

I like to work with my hands, to be creative, and to express myself, so I instinctively found myself drawn to cooking and the culinary arts, even in high school. 

My parents helped me develop this passion when I was young, and my father found some courses at a local culinary college – I was so excited! So at age 15, I spent half my time at school and half at college. When I graduated, I knew this was what I wanted to do in life.”

How has your career progressed since you started in hospitality?

“I think it is unusual to know what path you want to follow from such a young age, and now, at age 29, I have spent 14 years in hospitality. 

I love what I do because the possibilities are endless; you are limited only by the boundaries you set for yourself. Accor gives you the chance to grow. 

I have been here since 2022 and have already been promoted twice; my chef gave me the opportunity to develop. I was not sure I would be able to undertake the role I have now, but he believed in me, gave me the opportunity, and pushed me to do it. It was my proudest moment.”

Can you tell us more about the support you've received at Accor?  

“My managers have helped me to grow and improve; the company nurtures continuous career development. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I’m thankful for the opportunities I have had. 

Accor encourages me to push my boundaries and explore new horizons, contributing to my personal and professional development. I am also engaged in broadening my understanding of cuisines, techniques, and trends, and I am motivated by the options that lie ahead as I continue to evolve in my position as Chef de Cuisine.”

What was it like to be part of the pre-opening team at Pullman Tbilisi Axis Towers? 

“My adventure at Pullman started during the pre-opening, and now I am one of the longest-standing members of staff. Everything we put in place and all the difficulties we encountered to establish the processes of the kitchen was a fantastic learning curve and very exciting. 

It is rare to be part of an opening, and it is an important experience; you understand the processes better because you have created them, and you know how much work went into the opening, so you feel and respect it better. I always try to do the best I can.”

Unlock a Chef career with Accor today

Viktoria’s story of growth, passion, and dedication is truly inspiring. 

If you're ready to embark on an exciting and fulfilling career in the culinary arts or any other field within hospitality, Accor is the perfect place to start. 

Explore our Chef career opportunities today or read another Heartist®’ story on how they grew into an Executive Chef position.