For Renae, a great dining experience starts long before a meal reaches the table. It starts with knowing the person you’re cooking for.
After recently stepping into the role of Chef Manager at Regis Ontario in Victoria, Renae is bringing more than her hospitality experience into the kitchen. She brings the relationships she built with residents while working as both a Lifestyle Assistant and Lifestyle Coordinator, along with a strong foundation in commercial cookery.
Before joining Regis, Renae completed her Certificate III in Commercial Cookery and, during her apprenticeship, represented her state in the prestigious Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat competition, earning two bronze medals and one silver medal.
Renae joined Regis Ontario in 2023 as a Lifestyle Assistant, while also supporting the kitchen whenever extra help was needed. When the Lifestyle Coordinator role became available in late 2024, she embraced the opportunity to broaden her experience, introducing initiatives including cooking classes and a resident barbecue that quickly became a favourite.
The role also gave Renae the opportunity to learn more about the people she now cooks for.
“I have sat and chatted with several residents reminiscing about the old days, family meals and favourite foods,” she said. “Food is definitely more than just nutrition.”
When the opportunity arose to return to the kitchen as Chef Manager, Renae realised she could combine her culinary experience with the relationships she had built throughout the Home.
“Most of our residents don’t leave the Home for meals, so this is their dining experience,” she said. “It should be special.”
Her time in lifestyle has shaped the way she approaches food, helping her create dining experiences that feel personal and familiar.
Renae’s journey reflects the opportunities available to grow a career at Regis. By working across hospitality, lifestyle and now the kitchen, she has developed a deeper understanding of residents and the many ways employees can make a difference.
“I have loved becoming a jack of all trades,” she said. “The residents know I’m still here and happy to help, even if that means outside the kitchen.”
