Today’s Notable Young Professional is Alvin Pillay, Research and Development Chef for the Donnelly Group’s 17 public houses and cocktail lounges. Here’s what inspired his career path and what advice he would share for other young professionals…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
My main focus is on the development of our culinary talent and the introduction of innovative new food programs.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started working with the Donnelly Group to help build on their existing company philosophies – one of which is based on supporting great local vendors. This career option gave me an opportunity to work with a larger network of people and help lead a development program, something I’ve always wanted to do.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of my day is the side-by-side training of team members. The most challenging part? Also the side-by-side training of team members.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
Probably my lack of hobbies.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I see myself working on larger projects to establish our company as a national brand – we have designs on moving into new markets in the near future.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
A major challenge in my career has been learning to deal with people with temperaments and senses of urgencies that are all over the map. Sometimes all it takes is a little patience to improve dialogue with someone.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success for the company: happy customers who come keep coming back for more.
Success for me: a balance between work and life.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Winning Vanmag’s best new restaurant with Robert Belcham for Campagnolo.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
I would say dedicate yourself to your craft, whatever it may be; study your craft and be as smart as you possibly can. If you put in the work and effort, the success will follow.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
An evening of entertaining for me would begin with pre-dinner drinks at Clough Club (they have a great selection of innovative concoctions), followed by dinner at Suika, a cool Japanese spot that’s open late.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
I like to spend my down time reading, and when it’s nice out, riding my motorcycle.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Italy is one of my favourite travel destinations. The people are so full of life and food is one of the main pillars of the daily lifestyle and culture.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Ghostface Killah – Cherchez la Ghost.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I probably would have become a marinebiologist.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I have supported a few; some of the ones I am most passionate about include:
Greater Vancouver Food Bank
Growing Chefs
BC Hospitality Foundation
What to you is notable?
Notable to me is originality.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
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