College students land KFC jobs thanks to new job centre

L-R Muddassir Shah employability support coordinator, Phil Burt restaurant manager at KFC Portway, Pauline Hughes, Tracey Jones hospitality assessor, new recruit Siobhan Palmer and Gary Mather

A number of college students in Preston have been given a finger lickin’ first job.

Preston’s College’s job shop in the city centre has helped place 18 students and former students with fast-food giant KFC.

The Colonel wanted some new recruits for his Preston area outlets in Fishergate, the Docks and Blackpool.

KFC approached the Winckley Square based Job Zone to see if they could source part-time and full-time staff.

The Preston’s College backed service found people aged 18+ and ensured candidates had environmental health and food hygiene training.

Gary Mather from Kout Food Group worked with the college’s team to source candidates.

He said: “The level of candidates has really been great and the enthusiasm has been rewarding to see. The relationship we have built with Preston college is one that will continue to develop in the future.”

One of the former students who landed a job was 27-year-old Gavin Ramage.

He has since been promoted and trained as a KFC cook.

Gavin said: “The course from the college was very professional and it has set me up for a career within KFC and catering.”

An advisor at Preston’s College Pauline Hughes said: “KFC and KFG has been a great employers to work with. Gary was really struggling to recruit and just relied on adverts displayed inside his restaurants. With our help, we were able to find and develop future talent with the right personal and technical skills needed for the roles available. Each candidate was fully prepped before their interview to remove any barriers and show off their full potential.

“KFC has a great company culture that really focuses on coaching and developing its team. They offer great progression opportunities, which is showcased with Gavin and we hope to see many more of our KFC stars moving up the ranks in the future.”

If you’re a current or former student of Preston’s College you can get in touch with The Job Zone by emailing thejobzone@preston.ac.uk or calling 01772225222.