within the walls of American International Co. Ltd. -- satisfying the palates of a diverse group of people. As penthouse chef, he must prepare meals for resident and visiting executives of American International overseas, invited guests and various staff members. "It was when we moved to the new building in 1971 that I became cook for the penthouse,'' he said. "Cooking has always been a hobby of mine. (American International) was aware that I cooked. My boss at the time was Kate Jackson. She asked if I wanted to try it out and I said `Yes'. I'd never been to school for cooking but I cooked all the time.

I've cooked and been responsible for everything in the penthouse ever since.

It's in my blood. I'm related to the Ming and the also the Harvey family and everybody knows they are excellent cooks. So I tell everybody it must run through the family.'' Mr. Grant said that his long history with American International actually began in September of 1963 when he was hired to work as an office boy. He moved from there to the mail room for a few months until a vacancy came up in the stock room and he assumed that position. "I've been in charge ever since,'' he explained, adding that with his added duties in the penthouse he is really kept on his toes. "We have a set menu,'' he explained.

"They pick out what they want and I try to accommodate them. It's mainly breakfasts for any of the (executives) that come here from American International companies overseas and anniversary luncheons for staff members whenever they celebrate five years with the company. "But I also run the telex machine and operate the switch board from time to time and fill in where necessary for people who are on vacation. It's a great job. I love it.'' PHOTO Julian Grant Vernon Mello