Organised by the UK’s leading professional chef association, the Craft Guild of Chefs Awards celebrates excellence in culinary achievement, showcasing exceptional talent across the UK’s chef industry and recognising individuals at every stage of their careers.
Nick Vadis, culinary director, Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “This is such a fantastic achievement, and a real testament to the skill, passion and dedication across our teams. We’re so proud of all these winners - who have shown exceptional talent, leadership and creativity, as well as a commitment to excellence that makes them stand out in their field.
“The Craft Guild of Chef Awards are sought after accolades and it was wonderful to see our chefs rightly recognised. A huge congratulations to all of our winners and finalists.”
The Compass winners were:
- Apprentice Chef Award: Nikoletta Theofylaktidou – Restaurant Associates Group: Since joining Restaurant Associates Group in 2023 Nikoletta has demonstrated exceptional drive and ambition, progressing from sous chef to senior sous chef.
- Banqueting & Event Chef: Miles Greenaway – Rocket Food: Miles is culinary director at Rocket Food – making an extraordinary impact within just six months of joining the business in April 2025.
- Contract Catering Chef Award: Darren Passmore – Eurest UK: As culinary lead at Eurest, Darren was acknowledged for delivering excellence across large scale catering operations, while inspiring those around him.
- Culinary Hero Award: Robert Kennedy – Chartwells: Over two decades Rob has consistently used his culinary expertise, time and energy to support a wide range of charitable causes across the UK.
- Sustainability Excellence Award – Large Operator: Eurest UK: Eurest was recognised for its sector-leading innovation in tackling food waste by combining data-led insight with chef creativity, to get results.
- Young Chef Award: Tom Brassington – Restaurant Associates Group: Over the past two years as a student, Tom has demonstrated exceptional technical ability, professionalism and personal drive.
Kennedy commented: “This award is really special, because it’s voted for and to know that my peers have nominated and then voted for me is an amazing achievement. I absolutely love being able to use my experience and skills to support charities, it’s so rewarding and I believe food and events bring people together. Thank you to everyone who voted, I am feeling extremely humbled.”