From Apprentice to Future Head Chef: Faye’s Inspiring Culinary Journey
When Faye Szpytma joined Sodexo as our very first Chef Apprentice at Colchester PFI, none of us could have predicted just how quickly she would become one of our brightest rising stars. Today, she stands as a powerful example of how passion, opportunity and the right support can unlock extraordinary potential — and her story continues to inspire the next generation of Sodexo chefs.
Faye began her journey on a Defence site unlike any other: Colchester PFI, home to 3,000 soldiers and supported by 500 Sodexo colleagues. With eight bustling kitchens and a Central Production Unit, the site offers a fast paced, high volume environment perfect for a young chef eager to learn. After stepping into a newly created apprenticeship role — designed to help us grow our own culinary talent post COVID — Faye immediately made her mark.
She thrived in her Level 2 Chef Apprenticeship, embracing each rotation across our kitchens, every masterclass with HIT Training, and the hands on coaching she received from our Executive Head Chef. In May 2024, she completed the programme with a Distinction and secured a permanent role in the Officers’ Mess. But Faye wasn’t done — within months, she chose to progress again and is now completing her Level 3 Commis Chef Apprenticeship, developing new technical skills, supporting site wide culinary initiatives and even taking on early supervisory responsibilities.
Her achievements tell their own story:
- International Salon Culinaire Awards — two Bronze medals plus a Health & Safety Award
- Local Apprentice of the Year (2024)
- Colchester Salon Culinaire — Best in Class, Silver for Plated Main, Gold for Cakes & Bakes
What makes Faye’s journey so inspiring isn’t just her achievements — it’s her determination, her curiosity, and her willingness to embrace every opportunity. She balances her apprenticeship with learning support, yet continues to take on new challenges with confidence and purpose. Her commitment has earned her a place on our talent pipeline, and with the launch of our new Chef Academy at Colchester, she will soon help shape and support the next group of apprentices coming through.
With aspirations to become a Head Chef within the next five years, Faye represents everything Sodexo believes in: developing people, creating opportunities and helping talent flourish. For us, she’s far more than a successful apprentice — she’s a role model, a leader in the making, and a glimpse into the future of our culinary community.