Salima Boutemtam and Olivier Pons: profiles of chef trainers
Institut LyfeExecutive Education
At Institut Lyfe Executive Education, Salima Boutemtam and Olivier Pons are two head chefs and trainers who support professionals with a wide range of backgrounds and career paths. Drawing on their experience and their approach to training, they pass on their culinary expertise whilst adapting to the needs of the individuals and organisations they support.
A look back at the profiles of our two in-house head chefs and trainers!
Salima Boutemtam: from a career transition to sharing knowledge
Salima Boutemtam, chef and trainer at Institut Lyfe Executive Education, used to work as a notary’s clerk before undertaking a career change programme herself.
It was a personal event that prompted her to change careers and turn to the culinary arts eight years ago.
In this profile, she looks back on her journey and what drives her in her day-to-day role as a head chef and trainer: supporting learners with different experiences and life paths, adapting her teaching methods to each individual, and passing on the skills she has gained from her professional and personal experience.
Find out more about career retraining
Olivier Pons: putting experience to work for businesses
A head chef and trainer at Institut Lyfe Executive Education since 2024, Olivier Pons is particularly involved in tailored training programmes designed to meet the specific needs of businesses.
From the Ministry of the Armed Forces to French luxury hotels, as well as training programmes for agri-food groups where assignments focus on research and development, Olivier Pons’s assignments are numerous and his client base diverse.
In this profile, he discusses how he tailors his sessions to the challenges and professionals he works with: tailored training is adapted to the needs of each company to ensure it meets their requirements.
Passing on his knowledge is what fascinates him most: being able to share the techniques, tips and little secrets he has learnt from the very best, which he takes great pleasure in passing on to others.
Find out more about tailored programme
Through these profiles, Salima Boutemtam and Olivier Pons showcase two aspects of the role of head trainer at Institut Lyfe Executive Education. Two career paths and two complementary approaches, united by a shared desire: to share their experience and knowledge, and to support culinary professionals in their development.