Gusto Italian launches apprenticeship scheme

Premium casual dining restaurant group Gusto Italian has launched a new apprenticeship scheme, investing in employees by allowing them to achieve a degree-level qualification. 

Founded in Cheshire in 2005, Gusto Italian now has almost 600 employees across 13 restaurants. The brand's most recent venue launched in Nottingham in 2021. 

Thirteen junior managers have been selected for the first cohort. Over the next 18 months, they will study for a Level 5 Apprenticeship in operational management alongside their roles within the business, earning a qualification from the Institute of Leadership & Management. 

Junior managers from a range of roles have been given the chance to earn the qualification, including assistant general manager, duty manager, bar manager, events and sales manager and sous chef. Each apprentice will follow a programme tailored specifically to support them in their development path. 

As part of the course, apprentices will attend workshops and take on new business responsibilities, on top of shadowing the support team. They will be given assignments and receive one-to-one coaching, with all work going towards a personal portfolio.

Anne Marie Sarantis, head of people at Gusto Italian, comments: "We believe in investing and partnering with standout businesses to grow and develop our Gusto family.  The Gusto People team have been looking for ways to help narrow the skills gap between junior managers and senior managers. We’re delighted to have created this bespoke programme with Dove Nest, providing different experiences for each apprentice."


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