Gemma Evans-Hurley

"I initially joined Compass over 10 years ago as a Sous Chef and within 18 months proved my worth and moved into a Head Chef Position at 21 years old. Within another year, I progressed to an Executive Chef position looking after a respected national client. I am now Culinary Lead Projects in Compass’ B&I, Levy and Restaurant Associates sectors.

I am involved in lots of large scale and prestigious events, overseeing the culinary aspects of a large variety of projects for the business, across a range of high-profile clients. I enjoy landing future food trends and execution of our forward thing plant positive approach.

I am incredibly competitive by nature, so I’ve relished in the opportunity of being selected to compete in the last three Culinary Olympics, where I have won two gold medals, being the only female in the UK to do so. Participating in such great competitions with the culinary team is incredible!

One of the achievements I am most proud of at Compass Group UK & Ireland is that I am Co-Chair of Women in Food. Being in this role, allows me to provide insight into the industry and act as a platform to help showcase the talented women in Compass who approach every day of work with passion and commitment, as well as support their development and the future pipeline through mentoring chef apprentices.

One of my main aims for Women in Food is to expand the scope of what we do. Previously, the network has revolved around female chefs – we are changing this so that we make people aware of all the fantastic women who work in the food service industry.

I’m excited to see what the future holds!"