COLUMN: Why Chesterfield is such a good place to work

My job is very multifaceted and definitely always keeps me on my toes - not one day is the same. We run a modern Italian establishment that aims to provide great creations and offer our customers a real experience. We have a newly refurbished bar with ample terrazza, a cosy and very popular coffee area and a 70-seater restaurant space with an open kitchen.

We make everything fresh, in house, harnessing the creativity of our amazing Chef team led by Jamie Taylor and Carl Sooki. Our front of house team, led by Leonardo Pirisi and Pasquale Pollio, provide our signature brand of hospitality with a friendly, professional and attentive service. I cannot be more inspired to go into work every day having such a dedicated team of colleagues.

1. What’s your best memory of the town?

My best memory of the town is of running my first 5k Race for Life in 2015. The buzzing atmosphere of the streets, the encouragement we received from all the town folks and the stunning market town surroundings just carved a very special place for Chesterfield in my heart and a priceless memory.

2. What development do you think will make the biggest difference to the town?

There are two developments that I am particularly interested in: Chesterfield Waterside and Chesterfield Elder Way. The Elder Way development will bring more diversity in terms of restaurant offerings and the Chesterfield Waterside development is a mammoth project that excites me not only for its eye on modernity with an undying link to create even more community spirit, but also for its many retail opportunities.

3. How would you describe Chesterfield to someone who has never visited?

I love the community spirit and the cosy atmosphere of the town centre with its cobbled streets and bustling market. You meet people from all walks of life and I have received nothing but friendliness from the people of Chesterfield.

4. What are the positives of running a business here?

Chesterfield has shown such potential for development and rapid growth in the past five years alone. The culinary panorama of this town is blossoming and bringing new offerings all the time.

5. Who or what do you turn to in Chesterfield for business advice?

Personally, I have found a lot of support from Destination Chesterfield. I would turn to them for advice and try to attend seminars and events they offer, even if it is not always possible. They are a great advocate for the town and ambassador for business in the area.

6. Why did you choose to base your business in Chesterfield?

When Gian Bohan and Maurizio were looking for a sister site to the one in Sheffield, Chesterfield appealed to them as an up and coming town. The Chatsworth Road development was booming at the time and the closeness to the Peaks was also a deciding factor.

7. Who do you admire in the community?

I admire all independent businesses choosing to invest in the future of the town and the local business that are proving day in day out why Chesterfield is a great place to run your business.

8. What are the aspirations of your business?

My aspiration for Nonnas, Chesterfield, is to put us firmly on the culinary map of the area. We want to stay in Chesterfield and continue developing relationships with businesses and people.

9. What advice would you give to someone establishing a business here?

To anyone wanting to open a business in Chesterfield, I would advise them keep a strong connection with the community and just have fun with whatever it is you want to do.