Episode 19 - Interview with Hayden McMillian (Co owner of Floriditas & Loretta)

In Episode 19, I talk food, finance and business with Hayden McMillian, Co-owner of Floriditas & Loretta in Wellington. Hayden is one of New Zealand’s best chefs and fast becoming one the industry’s best business leaders. His 20 year career in hospitality has seen him work in a number of high profile restaurants both in New Zealand and Australia as well as being part of the America’s Cup in San Francisco.

In this episode, Hayden and I discuss his move from Head Chef to business owner and the lessons his learnt along the way. He speaks frankly about his transition from creative chef to financially smart operator and why they should not be mutually exclusive.

We talk about the importance of planning and the need to stay the course with you business. Hayden also shares his powerful insights into how the business implemented open book management and how it’s led to a better business with more engaged employees.

Here are a few key takeaways from Hayden from this podcast:

• The realization of the importance of focusing on the business side of hospitality, not just the culinary aspect.
• The importance of using tools like Loaded Reports for detailed financial tracking.
• The implementation of Performance Incentive Programs (PIP) & Open Book Management to motivate staff.