Why do chefs stay? Mapping their desire to remain in their occupation with the use of Repertory Grids technique

Zoom link: https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/j/89856437833

Abstract

My research is on chefs' retention in their occupation, utilizing the Repertory Grids Technique of the Personal Construct Theory. Unlike traditional organisational approaches to employee retention, my study delves into the chefs' personal constructs regarding their desire to remain in the job. The findings challenge conventional beliefs, highlighting the presence of both Job Embeddedness and Occupational Embeddedness in chefs' retention framework. Additionally, the introduction of the Internal Locus of Control as a supplementary filter unveils a dynamic relationship between chefs' intrinsic and extrinsic drivers to remain in their culinary careers. Remarkably, specific intrinsic personal constructs (the positive feeling of fitting in the job and their identity of a specialist with power and authority) emerge as compelling factors that influence their decision to stay, surpassing the influence of other external drivers (career and personal development opportunities), regardless of their challenges (adverse work environment). This research seeks to enrich our understanding of chef retention, contributing to the advancement of employee retention theories and informing effective strategies to foster long-term commitment in the commercial kitchen domain. It also serves as a foundation for further studies on the retention of highly skilled talents in occupations of excessive stress.

Speaker

Dr. Michalis Kourtidis is a Senior Lecturer at Birmingham City University and Course Leader of the Undergraduate studies in HRM. A longstanding academic in the realm of human behaviour, with a  background in Philosophy, Pedagogy, and Psychology from the University of Ioannina, Greece, and postgraduate studies in  Organisational Analysis and Behaviour at Lancaster University, UK. With over 20 years of experience as an HR consultant (mainly in hospitality) and an academic, he explores the intricate interplay between internal and external influences on human behaviour in professional contexts. His groundbreaking PhD research at Coventry University, UK, focused on the refinement of the chefs’ desire to remain in commercial kitchens, employing the innovative for this field of studies repertory grids technique. Beyond his research, he is a dedicated mentor, fostering critical thinking and scholarly excellence in aspiring researchers and HR professionals. Through public lectures and outreach, Michalis seeks to bridge the gap between academia and practical applications, enriching understanding of human behaviour’s significance. More information at my LinkedIn profile.