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Compass Chefs shine bright at the Craft Guild of Chef Awards

News

Compass Group UK & Ireland chefs have been honoured at this year’s prestigious Craft Guild of Chefs Awards - known as the culinary world's equivalent of the Oscars. The event took place on 24 June at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London with the Craft Guild of Chefs royal patron HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh in attendance.

 The Compass winners were -

  • Apprentice Chef of the Year Award – Jess Miller, Chartwell Independents
  • Culinary Hero Award - Graham Singer, Culinary Director, ESS

The Apprentice Chef of the Year award was awarded to Jess in recognition of determination in pushing the boundaries during her apprenticeship. A massively valued member of the brigade at the school who supported people at all levels muted the desire to enter competitions. Entering Compass Apprentice Chef of the Year, she won her heats and romped to victory in the final wowing judges with her technical ability. Jess has recently been promoted to a role within Restaurant Associates.

Graham Singer was recognised for his devotion to the industry and recognises how Graham balances the professional delivery of a demanding day-to-day role with a commitment to supporting his local community. Graham is a huge advocate of supporting those who are less fortunate and before Christmas 2023 he led a team of volunteers in preparing and delivering 4,500 meals for charities in the Aberdeenshire area. 

Nick Vadis, Culinary Director of Compass Group UK & Ireland and chef ambassador to the NHS Supply chain: “Wow what am amazing night. We are lucky to have such talent within our business. Our chefs are what makes us special. It's great to see Jess recognised for her passion and dedication to the industry at such a young age and for Graham who has works tirelessly every day to inspire others. They are a true inspiration to our sector.”

Compass Group UK & Ireland also had several others shortlisted for the awards –

  • Development Chef of the Year
    • Bob Hayes, Ingredient, Recipe & Menu Manager, ESS
    • Leanne Turk, Lead Development Chef - Foodbuy Culinary Solutions, Compass Group
  • Contract Catering Chef of the Year
    • Matt Moseley, Executive Chef, ESS
  • Banqueting Chef of the Year
    • Allen Townsend, Goodwood Executive Chef, Levy Compass Group

The awards were hosted by Mark Reynolds, our Levy Regional Executive Chef, who is the current Chairman of the Craft Guild of Chefs.

Apprentice Chef of the Year Award - Jess Miller
Culinary Hero Award - Graham Singer