"I want to see a stronger female presence in pastry. With my all female team behind me I feel we can grow as women in this area”
- Jacqueline Francis – Head Pastry Chef, Levy UK
Jacqueline Francis
I joined Compass in 2012. I studied at catering college before moving down to London for work.
The Head Chef at Twickenham recruited me. I instantly clicked with him and was excited at the prospect although also a little daunted by the numbers of people I would be catering for!
Since being here, Twickenham has had great investment. We are now working in a kitchen five times the size of the one I started in. I have been able to grow the team from two to a station consisting of four permanent pastry chefs plus casuals.
My aspiration is to grow the team further. My other focus is producing great pastry for special dietary requirements. We are a nut-free site which keeps things interesting!
What is a good example of an achievement you’re proud at Twickenham?
The World Cup in 2015 was a major achievement for us all at Twickenham. Performance and morale were both high and it was a massive accomplishment for the whole team! This sporting event was the original reason Matt recruited me, and my team and I rose to the challenge!
What culinary creation are you most proud of?
Generally anything chocolatey! During the Six Nations for the England vs. Ireland match last February, we created a Caramelia Chocolate Mousse, which was enormously well received. We served 5,500 portions of this mousse in one day!
