Meet our Chefs of the Year | Chef Appreciation Week 2024 | Part 1

September 10, 2024

Compass Group chefs passionately believe in​ the power of food to bring people together. They create a positive impact both in the industry and​ across the entire food system. Chef Appreciation​ Week is the opportunity to share how our chefs​ and their teams serve so much more than​ food.

Join us in celebrating our talented chefs and learning more about their unique backgrounds, inspirations, and accomplishments. Happy Chef Appreciation Week!

Jeff Thurston

Executive Chef
Bon Appetit Management Company

“At the end of the day food and feeding people is centered around the need for nourishment, celebration, community and family.”

 

Edwin Melendez

Regional Chef
Canteen

“Never stop learning about your craft and people. Setbacks will happen but it’s important to learn from them and continue to improve.”

 

Chuck Gibbons

Senior Executive Chef
Chartwells Higher Education

“Witnessing the spark of excitement when someone tries something new is incredibly rewarding and fuels my passion.”

 

Jorge Rodriguez

Executive Chef
Chartwells K12

“Engaging with the students is a priority to help enrich food choices, which impact their health and way of life.”