Lincoln International Business School Alumni Serves Up His Entrepreneurial Success Story

Chris Barker, Business School alumni and Director of local business, Popeye’s, shares his educational and career success story after graduating from the University of Lincoln in 2008.

Having studied Business Studies during sixth form, and having had several part-time jobs, Chris knew he was destined for a career in hospitality, particularly as he enjoyed the buzz and banter of developing a successful rapport with customers.

With managerial status in mind, Chris felt that the best route for him was to study business/management at university.

Chris explains why he was attracted to the Management programme: “There was an emphasis on seeing business from every angle.  

“Assessments were not only exams, but other forms which I felt were more practical when starting a career. The management course wasn’t just about business in numbers, we learned a wide variety of aspects that go into running a company.”

Throughout his three years of study, Chris continued to work part-time in the hospitality sector, gaining valuable experience which complemented the theory of his course.

Chris Barker at Uni Grad Ball
Chris Barker at University of Lincoln Graduation Ball 2008

Chris graduated with a 2:1 in BA (Hons) Management and decided to broaden his skill set still further within the hospitality industry and accepted a job within a commercial kitchen. Fast forward ten years, and Chris has now worked in various positions.

With a desire to own his own business, in 2017 Chris formed his company, Popeye’s – specialising in wood fired fresh pizzas.

Using a host of skills, including those learned at university, Chris designed his portable trailer, instructing the right professionals to implement the design and created the graphics and generated the promotion.

Popeye’s was originally designed to trade during the weekend and at special events, whilst still having the security of a Monday – Friday post elsewhere.  However, in March 2020 lockdown hit and Chris was furloughed.

Chris used this time positively and concentrated on the development of his business, making the leap of faith to trading full time. Months of research allowed Popeye’s to launch and trade at an incredibly high standard right from the very beginning delivering a menu that has proved very successful with a large customer base.

The second lockdown strengthened Popeye’s success with a loyal fanbase and steady and successful income flow. Chris’ plan is to continue to build and improve the business whilst maintaining his reputation for serving high quality, fresh pizza.

As an entrepreneur, Chris is conscious of the effect that Covid-19 has had, and will continue to have on business for some time to come.

He offers these words of advice to the next generation: “With the right skills and determination there is always potential. Have confidence in your ability, listen to advice, but make your own path, doing something that you enjoy. 

“As a business owner, I recognise that passion is important. You have to work extremely hard to achieve your goals, so investing yourself in something you have a keen interest in and enjoy is important.  I wish you a very successful future.”

You can find Chris based in St Matthias Church grounds, Burton Road, Lincoln or via popeyespizzaltd.co.uk along with Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

 

Christopher Barker at work
Chris Barker making pizzas at Popeye’s 2021
Fresh Popeye's Pizza
Fresh wood fired Popeye’s cheese pizza 2021