ACE Robyns finalist, Anthony Dye is currently executive chef at Shearman & Sterling LLP in London where he manages the food operation to their client suite. This is made up of 15 rooms and they can cater for anything between five and 120 clients and employees for daily meetings and special events. Before the big reveal of this year’s winner we chatted to him about the industry and awards.
What do you love most about working in contract catering?
The structure of contract catering is great and not every day is the same. It’s also great to be able to serve healthy and tasty food.
How did it feel to learn someone had nominated you for the ACE Robyns award?
It was amazing to be nominated - I was over the moon. It shows that hard work does pay off and it gets noticed.
What does being a finalist mean to you?
I’m thrilled at the thought that I am in with a chance to pick up the award and I have my fingers crossed.
How has work life been for you during the pandemic?
My role during the pandemic was slightly different as I took a soft services manager role within Sodexo at Johnson Matthey Brimsdown. This opened up my experiences and development within Sodexo. There was a focus on learning about all the systems we use as well as ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the catering and cleaning teams across the site. Personally, I was happy just being able to go to work every day as these were very testing times for many people from a work and social perspective.
What has been your biggest success in your role?
Creating and leading a new structure at the firm and taking the operation to the next level as it fell behind. I also nurtured the team during the pandemic and can now lead the team into the next phase and direction.
What are your ambitions for your future in the hospitality industry?
I want to go as far as possible within culinary whilst also being open to a move into the operations side of the business, as I have already gained some notable experience.
Why are the ACE Robyns so important?
To identify stars within the industry. I think this also reflects the industry we work in as a great place to create a career.
You can join us at the ACE Summer Party to find out who this year’s winner is and to celebrate and network with industry peers.
