Meet Jamie Rockall - Operations Manager for The Kennels

What’s your background?

I moved to Chichester from Essex when I was 18 to complete a degree and then a masters in Sport & Exercise Science and Biomechanics. I lectured at uni for a year, whilst working part time at The Kennels, but found that I became more and more interested in food and beverage. Eventually I decided to move to working full time at The Kennels, and now I’m the Operations Manager here.

What aspect of your job do you particularly enjoy?

I love the variety of events and businesses we have on the Estate and the fact that we can use and experience many of them, just like our members and guests. I was lucky enough to take part in the Land Rover Off-Road experience, which I thoroughly enjoyed! And of course sampling the food and wine that we serve here at The Kennels is always a pleasure!

How have you occupied yourself over lockdown?

I divided my time between cycling, catching up on box sets and many, many video calls with friends and family! I missed work, however, and I’m very glad to be back.

How have things changed at The Kennels?

Obviously, the experience of visiting The Kennels is different at the moment, with the measures we have taken to ensure everyone’s health and wellbeing. However our Members seem to be taking the changes in their stride, and it’s lovely to be so busy again. I am particularly looking forward to being the question master once again, though, once we can start to hold Member quizzes and other events once more!

Who are your heroes?

Noel Gallagher is a hero of mine. Closer to home, Kevin Crisp, our current Sommelier, was restaurant manager when I started work here at The Kennels, and he inspired me to pursue a career in hospitality with his passion, dedication, knowledge, and attitude to work and life.

Tell us something surprising about yourself.

I cycled solo from London to Antibes for charity and also en route cycled to the summit of Alpes d’Huez.