The awards recognise outstanding achievement and high degrees of creativity, excellence and innovation in Scotland's catering, hospitality and tourism industries.
Eddie Ward, Regional Development Chef for Scotland, based at Ineos was presented with the prestigious accolade at the Glasgow Hilton at the end of May. Eddie, from Glenmavis, in Airdie, has proven himself as an invaluable asset to all those who work with him.
Mervyn Greig, Facilities Manager at Ineos, Eddie’s primary place of work, comments on his achievement and explains why the Ineos team feel the hard-working chef was rightly honoured at the ceremony:
“From our perspective, Eddie is an inspirational ambassador for the catering profession. His passion for his craft and enthusiasm are infectious and are evident every day. He is a consummate professional with an ingrained belief in giving something back. His long standing commitment to working with young people and encouraging a career in catering is truly inspirational and encompasses work with primary and secondary schools as well as colleges.
“His success with mentoring members of his own team and supporting them through vocational training is outstanding, with many qualifications, awards and accolades achieved along the way. I think that the award of Contact Catering Chef of the Year is well deserved and is a fitting recognition of Eddie’s hard work and commitment.”
Eddie has been involved in various youth development projects including being a mentor chef at Nestlé Toque d’Or and team leader at Scot Hot.
Fraser Adam, General Manager at ARAMARK, was also a finalist in the Healthier Eating Award category, from a field of over 150 applicants.
Ward’s win comes hot on the heels of the recent ARAMARK Offshore award win and the RoSPA Awards earlier this year.