Career Opportunities

Why CNM’s Natural Chef Diplomas are unique

CNM’s Natural Chef Diplomas equip graduates with comprehensive skills in cooking and nutrition, preparing them for diverse roles in the expanding hospitality and wellness sectors. With hands-on training and expert guidance from experienced chefs and wellness professionals, and opportunities for real-world experience, CNM provides aspiring natural chefs and vegan natural chefs with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s evolving culinary landscape.

A Natural Chef’s focus lies in creating delicious, health-supportive meals using fresh, organic, locally-sourced ingredients, with a primary focus on nourishing the body. What sets CNM’s training apart is its holistic approach; students learn about human physiology and how the body works, nutrition fundamentals, and how food impacts health and well-being. Armed with this comprehensive understanding, graduates harness a food is medicine approach, adeptly creating menus and recipes tailored to various health conditions, such as diabetes and food intolerances.

As the demand for therapeutic menu planning continues to soar, there has never been a more opportune time to embark on a career as a Natural Chef of Vegan Natural Chef.

Career options for Natural Chefs

Recipe Developer

As a recipe developer, you’ll have the opportunity to unleash your creativity in the kitchen while crafting delicious and nutritious recipes. Whether you’re creating healthy meals, gluten-free treats or allergen-friendly dishes, your culinary creations will inspire others to embrace a healthier way of eating. You can find work in a variety of settings, including food media companies and magazines, publishing houses, culinary schools, food blogs, wellness retreats and food product companies. To pursue a successful career as a recipe developer, networking within the food industry, showcasing your work through a professional portfolio or food blog and staying updated on food trends and dietary preferences are a must.

Private Chef

You could become the personal chef to individuals or families seeking bespoke culinary experiences tailored to their dietary preferences and health goals. From preparing gourmet meals for special occasions to providing daily nourishment, private chefs play a vital role in supporting their clients’ well-being through meal planning and preparing wholesome and delicious food. Your role extends beyond the kitchen; it’s about building trust and rapport with your clients, understanding their unique tastes, dietary requirements and health objectives. This personalised approach and commitment to exceptional service sets the stage for unforgettable dining experiences, forging lasting connections with clients.

Cookbook Author

As a cookbook author, you’ll have the chance to share your culinary expertise and passion for healthy eating with a wide audience. Creating your own cookbook allows you to showcase your creativity in the kitchen and curate a collection of recipes that reflect your unique style and philosophy. Whether you specialise in plant-based cooking, therapeutic recipes for specific health conditions, or cuisine inspired by global flavours, your cookbook will serve as a valuable resource for readers seeking to adopt a nourishing and sustainable lifestyle. Start by defining your cookbook’s theme, develop original recipes, and outline its structure. Collaborate with publishers or explore self-publishing options. Use social media and culinary events to build your brand and engage with readers. With dedication and creativity, you can inspire countless individuals on their culinary journey.

Retreat Chef

Imagine cooking amidst breathtaking natural landscapes or serene retreat settings, where guests embark on transformative wellness journeys. As a retreat chef, you’ll curate nourishing menus that complement the holistic activities and healing therapies offered, creating memorable dining experiences for retreat participants. Your menus will reflect a fusion of nourishing ingredients, vibrant flavours and mindful preparation techniques, catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences. To secure a job as a retreat chef, networking within the wellness and hospitality industries, attending industry events and connecting with retreat organisers are key. Gaining experience in high-end or wellness-focused kitchens and attending culinary retreats or workshops yourself can also boost your chances of securing a retreat chef position.

Business Owner

The possibilities are endless if you want to start a culinary venture and become a business owner in the food and wellness industry. You could establish a catering company, specialising in events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations. Alternatively, you might create a meal delivery service, providing convenient and nutritious meals to busy individuals and families. Another option is to develop a line of specialty food products, such as artisanal sauces, baked goods or health-focused snacks, and distribute them through local markets, online platforms or specialty stores. Whatever path you choose, entrepreneurship offers the freedom to unleash your creativity, innovate in the kitchen, and build a brand that resonates with your audience.

Healthy Eatery Owner

Open a health-conscious cafe, restaurant or juice bar that serves nourishing and delicious meals made from wholesome, organic ingredients. From smoothie bowls to nutrient-packed salads, a healthy eatery offers a welcoming space for customers to enjoy nutritious meals that support their well-being. From launching a single establishment to expanding into chains or franchises, the opportunities are bountiful. Start by conducting market research to identify your target audience and assess local demand. Develop a unique menu highlighting fresh, organic ingredients and dietary preferences. Secure a suitable location, obtain permits and consider funding options. Establish a strong brand through effective marketing strategies. With dedication and creativity, you can create a thriving eatery that promotes well-being in your community.

Therapeutic Chef

You could specialise in therapeutic cooking by working alongside healthcare professionals to develop meal plans and dietary strategies tailored to individuals with specific health concerns or conditions. Whether it’s managing diabetes, supporting digestion or addressing food sensitivities, a therapeutic chef plays a vital role in promoting health through targeted nutrition. Your expertise extends beyond simply preparing meals; you analyse nutritional needs, understand dietary restrictions and create meal plans tailored to individual clients’ specific health conditions. Your role is pivotal in empowering individuals to take charge of their health through the healing power of food, providing them with nourishing meals that not only taste delicious but also contribute to their overall well-being.

Food Media

In the realm of food media, you could explore opportunities in various forms of media, including television, digital platforms, magazines and blogs. As a food journalist, you may write engaging articles, reviews and features on culinary trends, nutrition and healthy eating. Alternatively, you could become a food blogger or vlogger, sharing your culinary adventures, recipes and wellness tips with an online audience. With a deep understanding of nutrition and culinary techniques, you’ll have the expertise to create compelling content that educates and inspires others to adopt healthier dietary habits.

Food Education          

For those with a passion for sharing their culinary expertise and advocating for healthy eating, a career in education might be right for you. As a Natural Chef or Vegan Natural Chef, you could transition into roles such as a food teacher, lecturer or speaker, inspiring and educating others about the transformative power of wholesome and nourishing cuisine. Whether delivering lectures to other aspiring chefs or captivating audiences with insightful workshops, you could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food education and promoting healthier lifestyles. 

Food Styling and Photography

Combine your culinary creativity with your artistic flair by pursuing a career in food styling and photography. As a food stylist, you’ll collaborate with photographers, chefs and food brands to create visually stunning images that showcase culinary creations in their best light. From arranging ingredients to styling table settings, your attention to detail and aesthetic sensibility will bring food imagery to life. Whether working on cookbooks, advertising campaigns or editorial spreads, your ability to capture the beauty and essence of food will captivate audiences and inspire them to explore new culinary horizons.

The sky is your limit

Whether you aspire to work in a professional kitchen, launch your own food business, or make a difference in the lives of others through therapeutic cooking, the possibilities are endless with CNM’s Natural Chef and Vegan Natural Chef Diplomas. Unlock your culinary potential and embark on a fulfilling career path that celebrates the transformative power of food and nutrition.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Natural Chef or Vegan Natural Chef, get in touch at info@naturalchef.com  or register for the next Event.