Jill Holdem, head baker at Four Square Shannon, had always loved baking, learning from her mother and grandmother as she grew up.
She began her career professionally at New World Dannevirke. A few years later, she decided to do an apprenticeship and has been working at bakeries for over 30 years.
According to Holdem, the most rewarding aspect of her job has been teaching others and sharing knowledge, as well as seeing the products she has created sell fast.
Her most popular products are her pastry items, especially choux pastry and apple pie. She described these as her never-fail products, which she learnt to bake as a child. She added that she still used her grandmother’s secret recipes for a special touch.
However, her favourite item to bake has been cakes.
“I love making someone's wedding or birthday cake and seeing the look on their face when it’s finished. I love being creative with my baking, and cakes are the best for this,” she said.
“I look at something I want to make and give it a go. Sometimes it may fail, but most of the time it works.”
When she’s not working, Holdem enjoys walks along the beach with her dog Knox, reading, and lots of baking when the grandkids are around.
Holdem aims to continue baking for as long as possible and be able to guide and teach others along the way. She said a supportive team and boss were a must to achieve personal goals and have a happy working life.
Looking ahead, Holdem mentioned observing changes in Christmas trends, such as a decline in fruitcake sales and many people trending away from old-school creations. She said there were more interesting desserts these days, and the way bakers function has changed.
“We have more experience and access to better base products. If you are passionate about it, go for it. We are in high demand these days.”
More from Foodstuffs North Island here
