Career paths and industry growth: a conversation with Alice Cheng

Alice Cheng is the Founder and CEO of Culinary Agents, the hospitality industry's go-to professional community and trusted hiring platform.

Her journey began in hospitality, where early jobs sparked a passion for helping others overcome both job-seeking and hiring challenges. From mailroom temp to global marketing executive, Alice then honed her business skills during a 13-year tenure at IBM, where she facilitated innovation and advised leading Silicon Valley firms like Netflix on tech-driven growth strategies. This love for the hospitality industry combined with carving out her own career path in technology, led her to found Culinary Agents, providing tech solutions that have revolutionized how talent and hiring businesses connect in the hospitality world. 

Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Alice is dedicated to mentoring professionals across diverse fields and is a distinguished member of The Society of Fellows for the Culinary Institute of America. She also serves as a strategic advisor for Hot Bread Kitchen, empowering individuals through food-based careers. 

Recognized as a thought leader, Alice’s expertise is often sought out by major networks like Bloomberg and in publications such as Eater, Grub Street and LA Magazine. Her monthly newsletter, Pre-Shift Career Lineup, continues to inform and inspire professionals worldwide.

 

Listen in as we discuss why the restaurant industry is behind when it comes to career growth, and ways to build a long term career in hospitality.

 

Learn more about Culinary Agents and Hospitality Career Paths.