A Culinary Force: Spotlight on Una Redfern at FoodSpace
Una Redfern’s culinary journey is as dynamic as it is inspiring. Starting her career with a leading catering company, Una’s expertise soon led her to exciting opportunities, including the unforgettable experience of managing catering services at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. “It was incredible to be on the ground in Australia, running their catering services. I absolutely loved it,” she recalls.
A Day in the Life
As the Assistant Catering Manager at FoodSpace, Una’s day starts bright and early at 7 a.m. She dives into emails and reviews the day’s packed hospitality schedule. With events and meetings in full swing, her focus remains steady: ensuring that every detail runs smoothly from the front of house to the kitchen. She credits her “hit-the-ground-and-go” attitude and love of problem-solving as the keys to her success.
“My customers are my number one priority,” Una emphasises. Her energy and people-first approach shine through in every interaction. Whether walking 10k steps a day serving rooms across multiple areas or addressing last-minute challenges, Una thrives on the fast-paced demands of her role.
Inspired by Excellence
Motivated by FoodSpace’s ethos of supporting local, Una speaks highly of the leadership and vision of Culinary Director Conor Spacey. “He’s a passionate person, and his dedication to sourcing local and sustainable ingredients inspires me,” she says. This alignment of values makes Una an essential part of the FoodSpace team, where her passion for hospitality drives her work forward.
Achievements and Recognition
In 2017, Una received the prestigious Employee of the Year award for her exceptional contributions. She was surprised with the recognition. “I couldn’t believe it—it was such an honour to be acknowledged for my work,” Una shares. She also takes pride in her role in mobilising new sites, transforming operations into seamless, efficient systems. For Una, the results speak volumes: “Seeing the end goal of a well-organised, happy workplace is incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond the Kitchen
When Una isn’t crafting memorable experiences at FoodSpace, you’ll find her hiking uphill trails with her dogs or clocking in 5K runs three times a week. “Fitness keeps me going—it’s about staying healthy and enjoying life,” she says with a smile filled with energy.
Wisdom for the Future
When asked about advice for new team members, Una emphasises teamwork, adaptability, and a positive outlook. “Hospitality is all about being there for others. It’s nice to be nice, and that attitude goes a long way,” she says. With a commitment to hospitality and a sharp eye for detail, Una embodies FoodSpace’s mission to create extraordinary dining experiences while supporting local producers and communities. Her approach to her work is summed up in her personal motto:
“If you haven’t got the engine running, then you may as well forget about it.”
