Simon Lazarus (Culinary Arts 1993 and Hospitality Management 1990)

With a great combination of both formal education and training in the kitchen and front end operation of a restaurant,   Simon is a proud graduate from two VIU programs and is someone who has excelled in the Hospitality field. 

Originally from Jamaica, Simon wanted to explore a career within the Hospitality Industry. After completing the Hospitality Management Program he wanted to refine his skills in the kitchen and became a Chef to learn both sides of the industry. 

Simon has come a long way after graduating from VIU; he immediately began working overseas with the Hilton Hotels in their fine dining establishments.  He took advantage of the in-house training programs that Hilton offered to its employees.  He has had the opportunity to work in Switzerland, London, Bahamas, and Amsterdam, which has been his home base for the last five years as an Executive Chef. 

Now Simon is moving on to become the Area Director of Food and Beverage for Hilton in the UK and Ireland. He will be responsible for food and beverage services for over 75 properties including the Waldorf in London.

He credits VIU to with his success by providing a solid base with a real perspective and Chef Instructors with real working experience.  If he was to offer any advice to recent graduates from the Culinary Arts Program he would say “be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up”.   

Simon assumes his new role as Area Director of Food and Beverage, Hilton UK and Ireland, on November 1, 2006 and the Alumni Office wishes him the best of luck.