The Bigger Picture: Celebrating Chefs Who Create Impact at Scale
Most guests experience only a small part of a chef’s work. They see a great meal, a successful event or a dining experience that exceeds expectations.
What they don’t see is the planning, collaboration and leadership required to make those moments possible across multiple teams, locations and programs.
The chefs we’re celebrating today understand that great culinary experiences don’t happen in isolation. They are built through strong partnerships, thoughtful leadership and a commitment to creating lasting impact that extends far beyond a single kitchen.
This Chef Appreciation Week, we’re recognizing four culinary leaders whose influence can be felt across teams, operations and communities throughout our organization.
Tom O'Grady
Chef Manager
Flik Hospitality Group
Over the course of a remarkable 30-year career, Chef Tom has built more than successful operations. He has built trust, relationships and a reputation for excellence that has stood the test of time. Known for his unwavering commitment to quality and guest satisfaction, Tom’s influence can be felt in the strong partnerships he has cultivated and the example he continues to set for those around him. His approach to leadership demonstrates how consistency and dedication can leave a lasting impression long after a meal is served.
Juan Padilla
District Chef
Eurest
Chef Juan’s impact extends well beyond the kitchens he leads. Through hands-on coaching, training and operational leadership, he has helped elevate teams and create opportunities for others to succeed. His passion for teaching and commitment to high standards have strengthened programs across Eurest while helping associates build confidence in their skills. By sharing his expertise and investing in those around him, Juan continues to create positive change that reaches far beyond a single location.
Cody Levay
Regional Executive Chef
Touchpoint
As Regional Executive Chef, Chef Cody’s influence spans dozens of accounts across multiple states. Whether supporting teams during challenging circumstances, identifying innovative solutions or enhancing the guest experience, he approaches every opportunity with a focus on creating meaningful impact. His ability to balance strategic thinking with genuine support for others has helped strengthen operations across an entire region, improving experiences for both guests and associates alike.
Andy Hatcher
Associate Director, Culinary Solutions
Foodbuy
Chef Andy has dedicated his career to helping members and culinary professionals unlock their potential. Through consultations, educational programs, culinary academies and collaborative partnerships, he serves as a trusted resource for healthcare organizations across the country. His work helps teams solve challenges, elevate their programs and discover new opportunities for success. The impact of that support continues to be felt long after each consultation or training session ends.
Not every contribution can be measured in a single moment. Sometimes it looks like a stronger team, a more successful operation or a program that continues to thrive because someone invested the time, energy and expertise to make it better.
Tom, Juan, Cody and Andy have each created that kind of influence. Their work continues to shape experiences, strengthen our organization and support the success of countless others.