Four talented chefs from Compass Group have received accolades at this year’s highly anticipated Craft Guild of Chefs Awards which have been described as the ‘Oscars’ of the UK’s culinary sector.
The winners from Compass are:
- Scott Freeman, Culinary Director for ESS Defence, Marine & Aerospace, was honored with the Public Sector Catering Chef Award.
- Wayne Corbett, an Executive Chef for 14forty, was presented with the Contract Catering Chef Award.
- Ian Page, Executive Chef for Payne & Gunter, claimed the Banqueting & Events Chef Award.
- Darren Passmore, Executive Head Chef within Restaurant Associates, was recognized as the Culinary Hero.
The event took place on June 1st at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London, celebrating and paying tribute to exceptional talent across the industry.
Scott Freeman, the recipient of the Public Sector Catering Chef Award, has carved an impressive career path that includes culinary adventures around the world and teaching in hospitality education. Scott’s association with Compass began when he played a crucial role in developing the Chef Apprenticeship Academy. Currently serving as the Culinary Director for ESS Defence, Marine & Aerospace, he not only sets the culinary direction for the sector but also makes a notable impact through his charity work and support for junior chefs via apprenticeships.
Wayne Corbett, an Executive Chef for 14forty, received the Contract Catering Chef Award. Starting his journey as an apprentice, Wayne has amassed 20 years of experience, steadily rising through the ranks. He oversees catering services across six client sites, managing various aspects such as menu planning, foodservice presentation, ordering, waste management, and team training. Wayne’s outstanding resilience and adaptability during the pandemic stood out as he ensured uninterrupted 24/7 catering for his clients.
Ian Page, who contributes his culinary expertise to Payne & Gunter, was honored with the Banqueting & Events Chef Award. Joining the company in 2022, Ian made an instant impact by working on a high-profile £1.6 million event alongside renowned chef Jason Atherton within his first ten days. Since then, he has continued to deliver exceptional food and service at standout events, including catering for the Royal family. Ian also takes on the role of Young Chef Ambassador for the Craft Guild of Chefs, actively mentoring aspiring chefs to help them thrive.
The Culinary Hero award, voted for by peers in the industry, was bestowed upon Darren Passmore, an Executive Head Chef within Restaurant Associates. With 27 years of experience in the army, Darren has demonstrated his culinary skills in challenging environments worldwide. He later joined Compass, initially working in healthcare before transitioning to Restaurant Associates. Passionate about the transformative power of food, Darren utilizes his expertise to improve lives. In his spare time, he runs Rustic Rhubarb and teaches cookery skills to individuals with learning difficulties.
Nick Vadis, Culinary Director of Compass Group UK & Ireland and chef ambassador to the NHS Supply Chain, expressed his admiration for the company’s exceptional chefs, remarking on their unwavering dedication, passion, and expertise. He extended his congratulations to Scott, Wayne, Darren, and Ian, recognizing them as true inspirations to the sector.
Compass Group UK & Ireland also had several other notable chefs shortlisted for the awards, including David Hearn, Chef Manager for ESS Energy; Ben Crocker, Pastry Chef for Levy UK+I; and Tony Murphy, Executive Chef for ESS Government Services.
