I create learning environments that feel safe, real, and relevant.

About Tania Davey

For more than 20 years, I have worked across Australia and the UK in senior hospitality leadership roles. My career has included opening & leading restaurants for Fergus Henderson, Angela Hartnett and Jamie Oliver, as well as leading the People Department for JKS Restaurants, the group behind venues including Lyle’s, Kitchen Table and Gymkhana.

My experience has been shaped by high-end restaurants, bars and venues, working across operational leadership, team development, coaching, mentoring and the implementation of various people systems.

Today, through Tania Davey Training & Development, I work with hospitality businesses in Australia and beyond. My work includes learning and development, training and coaching for owners, leaders, managers and teams.

Having worked on both the operational and people sides of hospitality, I understand the realities of running venues, developing managers and supporting teams through the demands of daily service. 

My work is built on the belief that exceptional guest experiences are built through strong training, clear leadership support and structured people development.

South Australian Wine is an important part of our family life and also raising happy healthy kids.

PROUDLY WORKED WITH

Beerenberg, Falco,  Naughtons Hotel, The Courthouse, Neighbourhood Wine, Bahama Gold, Old Palm Liquor, Bar Liberty, Capitano Carlton, North Norfolk Cellars, Hilton Hotels, Mitolo Wines.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Involvement in the following restaurant openings:

  • The Merchants Tavern - Angela Hartnett & Neil Borthwick

  • Fifteen London - Jamie Oliver 

  • St John Hotel - Trevor Gulliver & Fergus Henderson 

  • Margot Restaurant, Covent Garden 

MANAGED THE FOLLOWING RESTAURANTS

  • Percy & Founders London

  • Margot Restaurant

  • The Princess of Paul Street

  • Magdalen’s 

OTHER ROLES

Head of People for Open House London

People Director for JKS Restaurants

  • Overseeing the HR, Payroll, Recruitment and Learning & Development Teams

  • What Tania built at JKS within the people team was a legacy, shaping the way as a business we operate. With her understanding of the balance between the commercial needs and practicality whilst still protecting, developing and nurturing the people that make JKS run. Tania influenced positive change and shaped for us what are people department was then and still is today. During Tania’s time at JKS I found her to be an inspiring coach and leader who has the natural ability to build cultures, develop and nurture using her depth of experience within every sector of the business. She was what I call a game changer and Tania will forever be on my ‘dream team’

    Joanne Searley

    Chief Operating Office - JKS Restaurants

  • Having known Tania for many years, I can attest to her unparalleled dedication, expertise, and passion for the hospitality industry, and more precisely the importance of People and Culture in the workplace. In fact, she was my first ever mentor and the best I ever had. And to this date, I regularly use tips, advice and tools that Tania introduced me to. Throughout our employment, I've witnessed her commitment to coaching and mentoring and her ability to develop and lead large teams in complex challenges with grace and resilience. What sets Tania apart is not only her deep knowledge of the industry, but also her innate ability to connect with people on a personal level. She possesses a unique talent for understanding the individual needs of each team member and tailoring coaching plans that assist the individual in reaching his full potential. Above it all, what strikes me the most in Tania is her genuine care and attention. Tania doesn’t simply connect on a personal level, but also on an emotional level. I have no doubt that Tania's consultancy business will thrive, given her exceptional skills, and genuine desire to make a positive impact. Her personal touch, love and passion will undoubtedly set her apart to the other consultancy company out there.

    Cedrc Touny

    General Manager - 22 Bishopsgate

  • I wholeheartedly recommend Tania to any organisation. As a key member of our senior leadership team, Tania's strategic insights and dedicated approach to people and culture have revitalised our team dynamics. Her influence is palpable, creating a positive and empowering atmosphere that extends beyond the workplace. Tania's commitment to individual growth and her talent for personalized 1-2-1 coaching make her an invaluable asset for leaders seeking to elevate their teams and inspire them to achieve their best selves. Working with Tania is not just a professional investment; it's a transformative experience that leaves everyone feeling empowered and motivated.

    Laura Irving

    Chief Marketing Officer - JKS Restaurants

  • I've seen Tania operate on both sides of the "Hospitality & Culture" coin, operating as the lead manager for high pressure fine dining openings and within a less front line HR / Head of People role for a larger restaurant group. As an operator myself I've come to realise that this type of experience within people management is second to none, a rarity which Tania possesses in abundance. Her understanding of the practical application of people management, culture & development, team structuring, the reality of what it actually looks like both financially and on the floor outside of human resource textbooks and updates is really where her true value to a client sits, she just gets it, and she's successfully done it before! Tania is a natural people person and developer, I've witnessed first hand her ability to build and develop her own teams and masterfully consult on others, there's a grace and artistry in what she does and perhaps to her own personal detriment at times a modest and humble understanding that the bigger picture of the concept, team and environment is far greater than herself and any one person.

    Sunny Hodge

    Diogenes The Dog // Aspen & Meursault

Trusted By

  • “What Tania built within the people team was a legacy, shaping the way we operate.”

    Joanne Searley COO

    JKS Restaurants -

    London

  • “ Tania has unparalleled dedication, expertise and passion for the hospitality industry.”

    Cedrc Castille GM

    22 Bishopsgate - London

  • “She just gets it and has successfully done it before”

    Sunny Hodge

    Diogenes The Dog and Aspen and

    Meursault - London

Want to explore what expert training and development in your hospitality business might look like?

The benefits of great systems, structure and training are compounding. Leadership training and development continues to create a positive feedback loop in hospitality businesses.

Receive a no obligation call with Tania Davey to discuss your business's individual challenges.

Book a Free 30min consultation.