Chef Career Spotlight: Josh Stanton

As part of a new chef career spotlight series our first interview is with Josh Stanton, Executive Head Chef at Compass Group UK & Ireland – the UK’s leading food and support services provider.

Chef Career Spotlight – Josh Stanton: What is your current role and responsibilities?

“I oversee the day-to-day culinary operation of match days and conferencing events from 20 covers to 5000, spread over up to 20 kitchens with a chef and porter team up to 160 people.”

Tell us about your culinary journey

“I started out in hotels (Birmingham), and later joined Compass as a CDP. I worked many other sites and then became a sous chef at Goodwood in 2013 before becoming Head Chef in 2016. In 2018, an opportunity arose to move to the Kia Oval as Executive Chef where I have remained since.

I’m at my happiest when developing new menus and concepts and have long held an aspiration to move into a role where this is a strong part.”

You’ve recently been inducted into the Marcus Wareing ‘Forward’ program at Compass Group – what does this mean for you and your career?

“I am honoured to be selected to be part of this course and excited for the growth in skills it will provide. Marcus is a chef I have followed for many years – so to be given the chance to learn from him and have him as a mentor is hugely appealing. I’m also keen to progress and develop as a chef and am excited to have such an inspiring mentor to learn from to broaden my knowledge and grow my abilities.”