Three excellent new team members join The Pomme

Jersey's hospitality industry is in the midst of a recruitment crisis. Chefs and hotel managers are hot property, which makes our three latest hires all the more satisfying.

Continue reading to learn more about the newest members of the Seymour Hotels family. 

Wali Ul Islam – Head Chef

Wali was born in Bangladesh and came to Jersey with his family at a young age.

After taking his Culinary Arts Certificate and Diploma at Highlands College, Wali began climbing the career ladder at some of the island's most reputable hotels. His passion and flair for food didn't go unnoticed, quickly earning him the role of Senior Chef. 

But Wali wasn't content with a senior role. He wanted to be the leader. And when our much-loved former Head Chef moved on, Wali seized his opportunity.

His unmistakable talent in the kitchen made him an outstanding choice for Head Chef. Since pulling on the apron in September 2019, Wali has enjoyed the creative freedom his new role allows him.

Outside of work, Wali enjoys spending time with his family. Describing the Pomme d’Or Hotel as the heart of Jersey, Wali recommends trying our seafood buffet, held every Friday at the Harbour Room restaurant, as well as our afternoon tea. 

Anthony Wickenden - Deputy General Manager

Careers in hospitality often give you the chance to explore exciting new places. And it was the promise of an adventure that lured Chichester-born Anthony Wickenden to Jersey to take over as Deputy General Manager at The Pomme. 

Before making the leap across The Channel to our beautiful island, Anthony spent more than 10 years in management at some of the UK's most prestigious hotels and private luxury properties. 

It's a career that's moulded him into a well rounded manager, who loves meeting new people and ensuring they have a great experience during their stay.

Anthony is an avid Arsenal fan, but we don't hold that against him. He's also passionate about trying new food and drink experiences, which he uses to fuel his own creative culinary ideas. 

Takis Pagkalis - Front of House Manager

Takis Pagkalis is truly a man of the world.

He was born in Corfu, raised in Australia and after completing his Diploma in Hotel Management he learnt his craft at prestigious hotels in the UK, including Rudding Park, Harrogate and IHG Crowne Plaza.

Since relocating to Jersey to join the Pomme d’Or Hotel as the new Front of House Manager, Takis has enjoyed exploring the island’s many beaches and spending quality time with his family.

Takis recommends our guests go on a tour to see as much of the island as possible, and make the most of the opportunity to enjoy the facilities at the Merton Aquadome.

Careers at Seymour Hotels

Stories like Wali's, Takis' and Anthony's highlight how a career in hospitality opens the door to travel, learning and leadership opportunities.

At Seymour Hotels we offer our team members the chance to up-skill and grow with professional training and frequent role swaps. To see where a career with Seymour Hotels can take you, head over to our dedicated careers website.