Lisa Levy’s family has a rich history in the New Zealand food industry.
The great-granddaughter of Sir James Wattie, Levy grew up on an orchard surrounded by fresh produce. When she began her career, her first job was as a waitress. Without realising it then, Levy would eventually have an esteemed career within the food industry, as it seemed natural to her to be involved in food somehow.
Levy moved to London early in her career, where she worked for Party Ingredients, a catering company with three restaurants. This offered a managing role for her whilst also working alongside and assisting in running numerous events. Levy then progressed into personal management within the company and worked with the HR Director to recruit, vet, train and manage staff for both the restaurants and events. She said that this was her first ‘taste’ of human resources and how important people are to each organisation. From there, Levy moved to Rules Restaurant, where she met her now husband, Simon.
During her time in London, Levy had the privilege of working with two inspirational women, Helene Darozza and Helen McKibbon, whilst at the Connaught Hotel in Mayfair.
“I am inspired by all women in our industry who have taken the risks to succeed as fellow restaurateurs, chefs, owners/operators and managers. It’s the same advice I give to my children: Make sure you work hard, follow your passion, never stop learning and take responsibility for your actions. If you believe in yourself, you can do anything,” said Lisa Levy.
She added that it is important for those wanting to succeed to work hard, follow their passion, never stop learning, and take responsibility for their actions.
“If you believe in yourself, you can do anything.”
Levy said that she had learned earlier in her career about the importance of not giving up, even when things get tough. She said that delegating tasks to other staff is the best way to lead a proactive environment and to avoid taking on too many responsibilities, as this will lead to burnout.
After leaving London, Levy and her family relocated to Christchurch in 2013. It was here that she and her husband set up INATI, a fine-dining restaurant in the garden city.
Since opening in 2017, Levy’s role has encompassed all aspects of running a restaurant, except cooking, which she said she has left to her talented team of chefs. INATI is set to celebrate its seventh anniversary in July.
One of her key motivations has been her family, her team, and her peers. She said that it was important to her to show her children that it takes hard work to be successful.
“Running INATI with Simon, I love that we complement each other with our skills, and that is what motivates us both to continue to strive to deliver an exceptional experience for our guests.”
For Lisa Levy, the opportunity to help bring change and recognition to the hospitality industry for future generations is to prove that it is a career and a profession that is hard work but incredibly rewarding.
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