Biggest issue affecting the industry? And what can be done? The skills shortage. As an industry, we need to put more effort into recruiting young people and then retaining them.
Jon Harvey-Barnes
Senior Business Development Chef
Biggest inspiration in your career? Andrew Turner.
Robin Dudley
Business Development Chef
Longest shift pulled? Probably about 36 hours. When I was with the England team, I did 48 hours straight because you had to prepare the cold platters and we just kept going all night.
James Circuit
Business Development Chef
Biggest inspiration in your career? I’ve got to say [Essential Cuisine founder] Nigel Crane. He’s always been so very passionate about what we do. I’ve always thought he’s fantastic.
Guy Norton
National Accounts Controller
What advice would you give to a young chef just starting out in the industry? Work in kitchens where they’re still cooking. Learn the basics, learn how to work with fresh ingredients and taste absolutely everything!
Howard Beasley
National Sales Manager
Tell us something we didn’t know about you? I can speak Swedish!
Mark Wickens
Business Development Manager - South East
Hidden talent? I can throw most items in the bin even if it’s about 20 foot away!
Rees Smith
Business Development Manager - South East
The kitchen’s on fire, what’s the first thing you take? Kettle – I’d need a nice cup of tea!
Gary Kilminster
Business Development Manager - South West
Bucket list foodie experience? I have a fair few! I want to dine at Noma, The Fat Duck, The Hand & Flowers, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay and El Celler de Can Roca.
Ben Kaye
National Account Executive
Hidden talent? I can do a lot of accents.
Rob Hamilton
National Account Executive
Favourite EC product? Mushroom Glace. Just for its sheer versatility.
Ronnie Smith
National Account Manager
If I wasn’t a chef, I would be… A Rockstar.
Chris Dickinson
Innovation Development Chef
Andrew Rogerson
Business Development Manager
Kay Derbyshire
Business Development Manager
Emma Fordham
Business Development Manager (Food Manufacturing)